How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in Missouri

If you're renting a home or apartment in Missouri and facing problems such as unaddressed repairs, unfair eviction, or unauthorized rent increases, you have the right to seek help. Missouri law offers several ways for tenants to address landlord disputes. Understanding your rights and knowing how to file a formal complaint can help protect your home and peace of mind.

Understanding Your Rights as a Missouri Renter

In Missouri, tenant–landlord relationships are generally governed by the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 535 of the Missouri Revised Statutes).^[1] This law covers critical areas such as security deposits, eviction procedures, property maintenance, and anti-retaliation rules. If you believe your landlord has violated your legal rights, official complaint options are available.

When to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord

Consider filing a complaint if:

• Your landlord refuses to make essential repairs or provide safe living conditions
• You are being threatened with wrongful eviction
• You experience discrimination under the Missouri Human Rights Act
• Your security deposit is withheld without proper cause
• You are subject to illegal rent hikes or harassment

Many problems can be resolved by speaking with your landlord directly. If that doesn't work, official complaint channels exist both at the city/county level and statewide.

Missouri’s Official Tribunal for Tenant Disputes

Missouri does not have a standalone statewide housing tribunal. Most serious disputes are handled in Circuit Courts (for rent and possession, unlawful detainer, or repairs withheld), or by local Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) for discrimination cases.^[2]

Which Official Forms Can Missouri Renters Use?

• MCHR Employment and Public Accommodations Complaint Form
  When to use: If you believe you’ve faced housing discrimination (based on race, national origin, familial status, disability, etc.)
  How it works: Fill out the online or printable complaint form and submit it to the MCHR.
  Download or file the MCHR Complaint Form here.^[3]
• Circuit Court Petition for Rent and Possession
  When to use: If you are facing wrongful eviction or landlord is taking action for unpaid rent.
  How it works: Defend against the landlord’s petition by responding using the general Missouri Answer to Petition form (CC70).^[4]

For complaints involving repairs, security deposits, or unfit housing, document your interactions in writing and contact your local municipal building or housing department.

How to File a Complaint: Step-by-Step Guide

The process will vary depending on your problem, but most Missouri renters should follow these steps:

1. Document your issue (take photos, keep emails/letters, note all details in a journal).
2. Formally notify your landlord in writing and give them a set deadline to respond (typically 14 days for serious repairs).
3. If the problem remains, contact your city or county housing/code enforcement office about possible code violations. See your city’s official website for complaint forms and information.
4. If discrimination is involved, complete the Missouri Commission on Human Rights complaint form online or submit by mail. MCHR will investigate your case.
5. If you’re facing illegal eviction or your health or safety are threatened, file an appropriate action in your local Circuit Court. You may use the Answer to Petition form to respond to landlord lawsuits.

Important Missouri Laws to Know

• Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 441)
• Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 535)
• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR)

These resources provide official rules, timelines, and protections for both renters and property owners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who investigates landlord complaints in Missouri?
   The Circuit Court handles most disputes (like eviction or withheld security deposits), while the Missouri Commission on Human Rights investigates housing discrimination.
2. Can I file a complaint if my landlord won’t make repairs?
   Yes. First document and request repairs in writing. If unresolved, contact your local code enforcement or building department.
3. What evidence should I collect when filing a complaint?
   Take photos, keep all written communications, gather receipts, and note dates and details of all landlord interactions.
4. Where do I get tenant complaint forms?
   For discrimination, use the MCHR Complaint Form. For court, use forms from your local Circuit Court or the Missouri Courts website.
5. How long do I have to act if I believe my rights were violated?
   You generally must act within 180 days for discrimination, and quickly for repair/code violations or court filings. Consult each agency for specific timeframes.

Conclusion / Key Takeaways

• Missouri tenants have protections under state landlord-tenant and discrimination laws
• Discrimination complaints go through the Missouri Commission on Human Rights; most other disputes are handled by Circuit Courts or code enforcement
• Document everything and use official forms to start any complaint or legal action

Taking action can feel stressful, but Missouri offers several resources to support fair and safe housing for renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR) – Housing Discrimination Complaints: 1-877-781-4236
• Missouri Courts – Circuit Court Finder and Forms
• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Rights & Consumer Guide
• For urgent repairs or unsafe housing: Check your city’s official website for local code enforcement, or call your county’s health department.
• Tenant advocacy groups like the Missouri Tenant Union (non-governmental)

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1. Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 535 RSMo)
2. Missouri Commission on Human Rights Complaints
3. MCHR Complaint Forms
4. Missouri Answer to Petition form (CC70)

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