Do landlords have to provide A/C and heat for renters? Here’s what MS law says

Rent prices seem to be higher than ever right now.

And with the need for air conditioning (A/C) during hot summers or heat in frigid winters, your wallet may be feeling extra empty after bills are paid.

But what if you don’t have A/C or heat in your rental? Is that illegal? Here’s what landlords lawfully have to provide tenants:

Do landlords in Mississippi have to provide A/C and heat for renters?

Technically, no.

Mississippi landlords aren’t legally required to provide a rental with A/C. However, if the unit already includes A/C and it’s in the lease agreement, then the landlord must keep providing A/C. The same goes for heat.

What do landlords have to provide by law?

According to Mississippi’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must do the following:

• Comply with the requirements of applicable building and housing codes materially affecting health and safety.

• Maintain the dwelling unit in substantially the same condition as at the inception of the lease, reasonable wear and tear excluded.

• Landlords must make repairs if the rental agreement states that the landlord will make repairs.

• They must make repairs in common areas, such as the grounds and buildings used by all tenants.

• Landlords are required to comply with all local and state building and housing codes.

Are you surprised by this story? Let me know your thoughts in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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