Missouri Landlord Move-In Disclosure Rules for Renters

Before moving into your new Missouri rental property, it's important to know what information your landlord is required to give you. Missouri law protects renters by requiring landlords to provide certain disclosures before you sign your lease or take possession of the unit. Understanding these rules can help you avoid surprises and protect your rights as a tenant in Missouri.

Essential Landlord Disclosures Required Before Move-In

Missouri laws and regulations make sure renters are given important information before committing to a lease. Here are the main disclosure types you should expect:

1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (For Properties Built Before 1978)

• Form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD Lead Disclosure Rule)
• When used: If the unit was built before 1978, federal law requires your landlord to provide this disclosure before you sign the lease.
• Example: If you're moving into a 1970s-era apartment, your landlord must give you this form and the EPA's lead safety pamphlet before you move in. This lets you know about any known lead paint hazards.

2. Names and Addresses of Landlord and Property Manager

• Requirement: Missouri landlords must provide you with the name and address of both the property owner and anyone authorized to manage or receive notices about the property. This is generally included in the lease agreement.
• Why it matters: This ensures you know who to contact for repairs, paying rent, or legal notices.
• See the relevant Missouri statute

3. Security Deposit Terms and Conditions

• Requirement: Landlords must clearly state the conditions for holding and returning your security deposit, including any deductions, in the lease or another written document.
• Tip: Always get this in writing. Missouri limits security deposits to two months' rent.
• Read security deposit rules from Missouri Revised Statutes

4. Move-In Inspection Rights

• Form: There is no state-mandated inspection form, but renters have the right to request a move-in inspection and should document the condition of the unit upon move-in.
• Tip: Completing your own move-in checklist (with dated photos) can protect you from unfair damage claims when moving out.

5. Methamphetamine Production Disclosure (If Applicable)

• Requirement: If the property was used for methamphetamine production and not properly remediated, the landlord must disclose this in writing before the lease is signed.
• View methamphetamine disclosure law

Other Notices

While not always required by law, landlords often provide these additional disclosures to avoid misunderstandings:

• Rules about smoking, pets, or parking
• Utility billing arrangements
• Occupancy limits

What to Do If Required Disclosures Aren't Provided

If you don't receive all required disclosures, or if you discover inaccuracies, act quickly:

• Request missing disclosures in writing from your landlord or property manager.
• Keep copies of all communications and documents.
• If problems persist, you may contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Office or consider mediation.
• For formal disputes, renters can take legal action under the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law through their local court.

Key Missouri Tenant Laws and Where to Learn More

• Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535 – Landlord and Tenant
• Owner and agent contact disclosure section
• EPA – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule for Rental Housing
• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law

All tenant-landlord issues in Missouri are governed by Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535. There is no separate housing tribunal; most issues go through local courts or Small Claims Court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What disclosures must my Missouri landlord give me before I move in?
   Landlords must disclose if there is any known lead-based paint (for properties built before 1978), provide their contact information, give the terms for your security deposit, disclose any unrepaired meth contamination, and usually clarify rules on pets, smoking, and utilities.
2. Is there an official Missouri move-in inspection form?
   No, but you have the right to inspect and document the property's condition on your own. Photos and checklists help protect your security deposit.
3. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t give me required disclosures?
   Request them in writing immediately. If you still don’t receive them, you can contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Office or seek legal help.
4. How do I find out if my building has lead paint or meth contamination?
   Ask your landlord for the official disclosure forms. They are required by law to provide this information if it applies to the unit you are renting.
5. Where do I go if I have a dispute with my landlord?
   Most disputes in Missouri are handled in local courts or Small Claims Court. The Attorney General’s page on landlord-tenant law can guide you.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Missouri law requires landlords to disclose lead paint, agent contact info, security deposit rules, and any meth contamination before you move in.
• Always request disclosures in writing and document your unit's condition at move-in.
• Know your rights and use official resources for help with disputes or missing information.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law Resources: Guidance, complaint options, and legal information for renters.
• Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535: Landlord and Tenant: Read the current landlord-tenant laws.
• For disputes or enforcement, your local county court or Small Claims Court (Missouri Courts locator) handles most tenant cases.
• EPA Lead Information for Tenants: Health and safety tips if renting older housing.

---

1. See Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535: Landlord and Tenant
2. Lead-based paint disclosure: EPA Lead Disclosure Rule
3. Security Deposit limits and procedures: Missouri Section 535.300
4. Owner/agent information requirement: Missouri Section 535.185
5. Methamphetamine property disclosure: Missouri Section 441.236

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