How to Report a Landlord in Mississippi for Unsafe Living Conditions

How to Report a Landlord in Mississippi for Unsafe Living Conditions

Last Updated: May 13, 2023

When a renter in Mississippi can’t obtain necessary repairs, it’s usually possible to file a report with the proper government departments about the unsafe conditions on the property. Code inspectors have the power to order repairs or fine noncompliant landlords.

What Are Considered Unsafe Living Conditions in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, unsafe living conditions exist when a rental property doesn’t have the following maintained to a basic habitable standard:

  • The structure of the dwelling unit
  • Common areas
  • Plumbing
  • Features that affect health, safety, or habitability

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What Should Tenants Do Before Reporting a Violation in Mississippi?

In most cases, before reporting a violation, Mississippi tenants must notify the landlord in writing about the issue and ask them to fix it within 14 days.

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How Can Tenants Report a Violation in Mississippi?

Tenants in Mississippi should report violations to the local office or officers responsible for housing code enforcement. The exact process depends on the municipality.

Location Organization Contact
Jackson Department of Constituent Services Online Form
Gulfport 311 Service Online Form
Southaven Municipal Code Enforcement Division Email

After receiving a complaint, an inspecting officer might contact the tenant for more information. Then, the officer inspects the property and cites the landlord for code violations.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Jackson?

Tenants in Jackson can report a health or safety violation by calling the Department of Constituent Services at (601) 960-2324 or using the provided online form. Select a relevant issue, enter location, and contact information along with a description of the issue, and submit.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Gulfport?

Tenants in Gulfport can report a health or safety violation by calling the 311 Service at (228) 868-5700 or using the provided online form. Provide contact information and location, describe the issue in detail, and submit.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Southaven?

Tenants in Southaven can report a health or safety violation by calling the Municipal Code Enforcement Division at (662) 280-6523 or emailing the Code Enforcement Supervisor. You’ll need to provide the location, contact information, and a detailed description of the issue.

What Could Happen to a Landlord After a Complaint is Made in Mississippi?

An officer may inspect the property after a tenant files a complaint about unsafe living conditions in Mississippi. The landlord must fix the noted code violations. Otherwise, the landlord could be fined, and the local government might file a lawsuit to condemn the property.

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