Missouri Landlord Repair Duties: Renter Rights Explained

Understanding your rights about repairs and maintenance can help keep your Missouri rental home safe and habitable. Missouri law sets clear expectations for what landlords must fix, how to request repairs, and what renters can do if repairs aren't made. Here, we explain those rules in plain language, include official resources, and offer actionable steps for renters needing help with unresolved maintenance issues.

What Repairs Are Landlords Legally Required To Make?

Under Missouri law, landlords must provide and maintain rental housing that meets basic health and safety standards. This is known as the “implied warranty of habitability.” Even if not stated in your lease, landlords are responsible for:

• Fixing plumbing, heating, and cooling systems
• Maintaining a working electrical system
• Eliminating infestations (such as rodents or insects)
• Repairing roofs, walls, floors, and windows to keep out water and weather
• Providing hot and cold running water
• Ensuring smoke detectors work correctly

A landlord is not required to repair damages caused by the renter, their pets, or guests.

How to Request a Repair

If you notice a problem, report it to your landlord promptly. Communicate in writing—email, letter, or text message—and keep a record for your files. This paper trail is important if the repair is not made on time.

Landlord's Timeframe to Make Repairs

The law does not set a specific number of days, but repairs should be made within a "reasonable time" after receiving your written request. Major issues such as no heat in winter or plumbing failures should be addressed quickly.

If Repairs Aren't Made: Steps for Missouri Renters

If your landlord doesn't fix a serious problem after receiving your written notice, Missouri law gives renters several options. Always try to resolve the issue by communicating, but know your legal rights and available actions.

• File a complaint with your local housing or building code office—they may inspect and order repairs.
• Consider "repair and deduct" only under specific circumstances—Missouri law does not generally allow renters to withhold rent or pay for repairs and deduct from rent without a court order.
• If the home is unsafe, you may be able to terminate your lease; consult legal resources or the official tribunal for guidance.

Tip: Always keep copies of your written repair requests and landlord responses. This record will be important if you need to go to court or contact your city's housing inspector.

Official Tribunal for Residential Tenancy Disputes

In Missouri, Missouri state courts handle landlord-tenant disputes, including repair issues. Renters can file actions in local County Circuit Courts. There is no separate housing tribunal—these matters are under civil court jurisdiction.

Key Missouri Landlord-Tenant Legislation

The main law outlining landlord and tenant responsibilities is the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant and Chapter 535 – Landlord-Tenant Actions and Procedures¹. These chapters cover repairs, eviction, security deposits, and more.

Official Forms for Missouri Renters

• Request for Repairs (No official state form number):
  • When to use: Send this written notice to your landlord to document the repair request. It should describe the issue, the date you reported it, and a request for timely repair.
  • Action: Create your own or use a city template, such as the City of St. Louis Rental Complaint Form for reference.
• Petition for Rent Escrow (Form CAFA-12):
  • When to use: If serious repairs affecting health or safety are not made after proper notice, some Missouri courts allow renters to pay rent into escrow instead of to the landlord.
  • How: File this form at your local circuit court; see the Petition for Rent Escrow (St. Louis City example).

What Is "Repair and Deduct" in Missouri?

Missouri law does not automatically give renters the right to repair and deduct without a court order. To be safe, do not withhold rent or pay for repairs without legal guidance or a judge's approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if my landlord doesn't respond to my repair request?
   Document all communication, contact your city housing department for an inspection, and consider court action if the problem isn't fixed.
2. Can I withhold rent if repairs are not made?
   No, Missouri law does not let renters withhold rent for repairs unless a court orders it or you are legally using the rent escrow process.
3. How do I file a formal complaint about safety or health issues?
   File with your local housing or building code office using their complaint form or call your city’s housing department. Check their website for procedures and forms.
4. Are landlords required to fix minor cosmetic issues?
   No, landlords are only required to fix health, safety, or property function issues. Cosmetic or small aesthetic problems are typically not covered by law.
5. Is "repair and deduct" legal in Missouri?
   No, not unless a court specifically authorizes it. Always seek court approval or legal advice before proceeding.

Summary: Missouri Renter Repair Rules

• Landlords must fix problems that affect safety, health, or building condition by law.
• Request repairs in writing. If not fixed, legal action may be possible.
• Rent withholding and “repair and deduct” are only allowed with court permission.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law (handbook and complaint info)
• Missouri Courts Portal (file landlord-tenant actions or find forms)
• Missouri Housing Development Commission: Tenant Legal Resources
• Local city housing and code enforcement offices (check your city government's website for contacts and complaint forms)
• Free or low-cost legal aid: Legal Services of Missouri

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes – Chapter 441 and Chapter 535
2. Missouri County Circuit Courts
3. Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law
4. Missouri Housing Development Commission: Tenant and Legal Resources

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