No. Lockouts are not legal in Mississippi. A landlord may not change the locks, block access, or otherwise prevent a tenant from entering their rental unit without a court order. Even if rent is overdue or the lease has been violated, Mississippi law requires landlords to use the court eviction process—not self-help tactics like lockouts.
This article explains why lockouts are illegal, what counts as a lockout, what tenants can do immediately, and the consequences landlords may face.
Table of Contents
Why Lockouts Are Illegal Under Mississippi Law
Mississippi landlord-tenant law requires due process for eviction. Only a judge can authorize the removal of a tenant from a rental property. When a landlord changes locks or denies access without a court order, it bypasses this legal process and qualifies as an illegal eviction.
For the legal framework, see Mississippi Illegal Eviction Laws Explained.
What Counts as a Lockout?
A lockout is any action that prevents a tenant from accessing their home. Common examples include:
Temporary or partial lockouts—such as blocking access at night—can still be illegal.
Can a Landlord Lock You Out for Nonpayment of Rent?
No. Even if a tenant has not paid rent, a landlord must follow the eviction process:
- Serve proper written notice
- File an eviction case in court
- Obtain a court judgment
- Use law enforcement to enforce the eviction, if necessary
Skipping these steps and locking a tenant out is unlawful.
For notice rules, review Mississippi Eviction Process Step by Step.
What If the Landlord Locks You Out While You Are Away?
A lockout is still illegal even if it happens while the tenant is at work, traveling, or temporarily absent. Tenants do not lose their rights because they were not present at the time the locks were changed.
What Should You Do If You Are Locked Out?
If you are locked out of your rental unit in Mississippi:
- Document the lockout (photos, videos, timestamps)
- Contact the landlord in writing and request immediate access
- Call local law enforcement if you cannot enter your home
- Do not break in, as this could create legal issues
- Seek legal help or tenant legal aid
Prompt documentation can be critical if you later need to prove an illegal eviction.
For evidence guidance, see How to Prove an Illegal Eviction in Mississippi.
Can Police Help During a Lockout?
Police officers generally require a court order to remove a tenant. However, if a landlord has illegally locked a tenant out, police may:
- Document the incident
- Ask the landlord to restore access
- Advise the tenant on next steps
For more detail, see Can Police Help With an Illegal Eviction in Mississippi?
Landlord Penalties for Lockouts
Landlords who perform lockouts may face:
- Court-ordered damages
- Liability for lost or damaged property
- Possible civil penalties
- Legal fees and court costs
Lockouts can also weaken a landlord’s position in any subsequent eviction case.
For landlord duties, see Mississippi Landlord Rights and Responsibilities.
Tenant Rights After a Lockout
Tenants may have the right to:
- Immediate reentry
- Recovery of personal property
- Monetary damages
- Injunctive relief preventing further lockouts
For broader protections, review Mississippi Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lockout legal if the lease has ended?
No. Even after a lease ends, a landlord must obtain a court order to remove a tenant.
Can a landlord lock you out for violating house rules?
No. Lease violations still require a court eviction.
Can a landlord threaten a lockout?
Threats alone may be evidence of harassment and illegal eviction attempts.
Final Thoughts
Lockouts are illegal in Mississippi and are considered a form of illegal eviction. Landlords must use the court system—never force—to regain possession of a rental unit. If you are locked out, document the situation and act quickly to protect your rights.
Author Disclosure
Written by Emily Carter, J.D.
Housing law researcher and Small Claims Court specialist with over 8 years of experience in landlord–tenant disputes.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not provide legal advice.
