Challenging Illegal Rental Fees in Missouri: A Renter’s Guide

If you’re a renter in Missouri and notice unexpected or questionable charges on your rent bill, it’s important to know your rights. Missouri has specific laws regulating what fees landlords can and cannot charge. This guide explains how to identify, challenge, and seek help for illegal fees on your rent bill in Missouri—so you can protect your finances and your home.

Understanding Legal and Illegal Fees in Missouri

Not all fees charged by landlords are allowed under Missouri law. Generally, all fees, including late fees and pet deposits, should be clearly detailed in your written lease agreement. Landlords cannot add new fees after you sign unless you agree in writing.

• Allowed fees: Late fees (if specified in your lease), returned check fees, certain pet fees, and security deposits.
• Potentially illegal fees: Undisclosed administrative or processing fees, excessive amounts not outlined in your lease, or charges contradicting Missouri law.

Missouri’s primary tenant-law statute is the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law, RSMo Section 535.¹ There are no rent control laws in Missouri, but fee practices are still limited by contract, fair housing, and consumer protection laws.

Common Illegal or Disputed Fees in Missouri

• Administrative or service fees not listed in your lease
• Excessive late fees (the lease must state the fee and it should be reasonable)
• Maintenance or repair fees for normal wear-and-tear
• Move-in/move-out fees not agreed upon in advance

If you are unsure if a fee is legal, refer to the Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Law Guide for more details.²

How to Challenge an Illegal Fee: Action Steps

If you think you’ve been charged an illegal or improper fee, follow these steps to protect your rights as a renter in Missouri:

• Review your lease agreement to confirm whether the disputed fee is listed and disclosed.
• Gather all relevant documents—such as the rent bill, lease, and communications with your landlord.
• Contact your landlord in writing, politely explaining your concern and referencing the applicable lease clause or state law.
• If the issue isn’t resolved, file a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office (see more below).

Official Complaint and Legal Options

• Missouri Attorney General’s Office: You can file an official consumer complaint using the Consumer Complaint Form (no specific form number). Renters use this form to report landlords who charge illegal fees or violate state tenancy laws.
• Court Action: If significant money is in dispute or you face retaliation, you can file a claim in Missouri Small Claims Court. There is no dedicated residential tenancy tribunal, but local circuit courts handle landlord-tenant cases. Learn more on the Missouri Courts Small Claims information page.

If you use the Consumer Complaint Form, you’ll need to:

• Fill out all renter and landlord details
• Include a description and copies of your supporting documents
• Submit online or by mail

Missouri Tenancy Law and Enforcement Agencies

Missouri does not have a specialized housing tribunal. Instead, tenant disputes are resolved through court or complaints to enforcement agencies:

• Missouri Attorney General’s Office – consumer protection and mediation
• Missouri Judicial Branch – local circuit and small claims courts for legal disputes

The main legislation is the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (RSMo Chapter 535).¹

FAQ: Challenging Rental Fees in Missouri

1. What should I do if my landlord charges a fee not listed in my lease? – Politely notify your landlord in writing, citing your lease and Missouri law. Request a written explanation or correction. If not resolved, consider filing a consumer complaint with the Attorney General.
2. Are there limits to late fees in Missouri? – Missouri does not mandate a maximum late fee, but all fees must be specified in your written lease agreement. Excessive or unexpected fees may be considered unfair under consumer law.
3. What official forms do I use to file a complaint about an illegal fee? – Use the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Form. Attach supporting documents and explain the situation clearly.
4. Can I go to court over an illegal rental fee? – Yes, renters can sue for improper fees in Missouri Small Claims Court, although most disputes are resolved through negotiation or complaint to the Attorney General first.
5. What happens after I file a Consumer Complaint Form? – The Missouri Attorney General’s Office may investigate, mediate the dispute, or advise you on further steps. You will be contacted if more information or action is needed.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Always review your lease and Missouri law before paying unexpected fees.
• Document communications and ask for explanations in writing.
• Use the Consumer Complaint Form or small claims court if issues persist.

Understanding your rights makes it easier to challenge any illegal or unfair fees on your rent bill in Missouri.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources – Guidance and complaint process
• Consumer Complaint Online Form – Report illegal fees or rental issues directly to the state
• Missouri Courts Small Claims Division – For legal disputes and fee recovery
• Missouri Housing Development Commission – Renters’ Assistance

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1. Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (RSMo Chapter 535)
2. Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law Guide

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