How Mediation Helps Resolve Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Missouri

If you’re a renter experiencing a dispute—like disagreements over rent, security deposits, repairs, or a possible eviction—knowing your options can help you resolve problems without going to court. In Missouri, mediation offers a practical, lower-stress way for landlords and tenants to work through issues and reach an agreement.

What Is Mediation for Missouri Renters?

Mediation is a confidential meeting where you and your landlord sit down with a neutral third party (the mediator) to discuss your dispute. The goal is to help you both find a solution everyone can accept, avoiding the time and stress of a formal court process. Mediation is used for many issues, such as:

• Repairs or maintenance concerns
• Rent increases or unpaid rent
• Eviction threats
• Return of security deposits
• Lease disagreements

Both sides have the opportunity to share their side and suggest solutions in a safe, confidential setting. Agreements made in mediation are voluntary but can be made legally binding if both parties agree in writing.

How Mediation Works in Missouri

Mediation can be started at any stage of a dispute—even before a formal court action is filed. Some courts in Missouri encourage or require mediation, especially in landlord-tenant cases. If you’re facing an eviction case (called an "unlawful detainer" in Missouri), check with your local Circuit Court to see if alternative dispute resolution services are available.

Missouri's Official Mediation Process

Here are the main steps if you want to try mediation to resolve a landlord-tenant dispute:

• Contact your local court or community mediation center. Ask about their process for rental disputes.
• File a Request for Mediation form. Some courts provide a specific form, such as the Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant, commonly used in Missouri Circuit Courts.
• Both parties must agree to mediate. Mediation is voluntary unless ordered by the court.
• Attend the scheduled session with a trained mediator, who will guide the discussion and help both sides find common ground.
• Record the agreement in writing. If you come to an agreement, be sure to sign a statement showing both sides agree and understand the terms.

Many counties in Missouri run local mediation centers in partnership with the courts. A directory is available at the Missouri Courts – Alternative Dispute Resolution resource page.

Relevant Legislation and Official Agencies

• Governing Law: Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. See Chapter 441.
• Official Tribunal: Missouri Circuit Courts handle residential tenancies and eviction filings. Missouri Circuit Court Directory

The Missouri Attorney General also offers a helpful Landlord-Tenant Law resource with practical guides based on state law.¹

Official Forms Used in Missouri Mediation

• Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant
  (Common local form, no statewide form number)
  When to Use: If you and your landlord (or tenant) want to start mediation before a court case, fill out this form through your local mediation program or Clerk of Court.
  Example: If your landlord threatens eviction over allegedly unpaid rent, but you dispute the amount owed, you can file this form to try resolving the issue before it goes to court.
  Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant (example form)

Benefits of Mediation (and When to Try It)

Mediation helps renters keep disputes affordable and private. It often resolves conflicts faster than the traditional legal process:

• Voluntary, confidential, and generally free or low-cost
• Lets you shape a solution that works for both sides
• May stop an eviction before it goes to court
• Tends to preserve a positive rental reference for the future

If mediation does not resolve the issue, you still have the right to go to court under the Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Steps to Start Mediation in Missouri as a Renter

Here’s what you should do if you want to begin the mediation process:

• Contact your local Missouri Circuit Court or mediation center and ask for "landlord-tenant dispute mediation." Use their Circuit Court directory to find your local court.
• Complete the "Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant" form (example: this local form).
• Submit the form to the court or local mediation program as instructed, and wait for the other party's response.
• Attend the scheduled mediation session and bring any documentation related to your dispute (lease, payment records, emails, photos, etc.).

Your local Clerk of Court can explain next steps and what to expect. If mediation is successful, be sure to keep a copy of the signed agreement for your records.

FAQs: Missouri Renters and Mediation

1. Does mediation stop an eviction in Missouri?
   Mediation can pause (but not always stop) an eviction case if both sides agree to participate. If an agreement is reached, it may resolve the grounds for eviction. Always respond to court documents even if you’re seeking mediation.
2. Is mediation free for renters?
   Many Missouri court-connected or nonprofit mediation programs offer free or low-cost mediation for housing disputes. Always check with your local center for details.
3. What if my landlord refuses to participate in mediation?
   Mediation is voluntary unless ordered by the court. If your landlord declines, you may still present your case in court.
4. Does a mediation agreement have legal force?
   If both parties sign a mediation agreement, it may be enforceable as a contract. In some cases, judges may enter it as a court order.
5. Where do I find official forms for Missouri landlord-tenant mediation?
   Check with your local Circuit Court, or use sample forms like the Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant available through court websites.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Mediation gives renters and landlords a practical way to resolve disputes, often faster and with less stress than court.
• You can start mediation before or during a court case by contacting your local Circuit Court or mediation center.
• Always review your rights under the Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act before agreeing to any terms.

Understanding your options helps you protect your home and make clear, informed decisions if a conflict arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law Overview
• Missouri Courts – Alternative Dispute Resolution Programs
• Legal Services of Missouri (free/low-cost legal help for eligible tenants)
• Missouri Circuit Court Directory
• Review Missouri tenancy laws: Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 441)

---

1. Missouri Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Law
2. Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 441)
3. Missouri Courts – Alternative Dispute Resolution Information
4. Request for Mediation – Landlord/Tenant (Local Example Form)

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations