Missouri Apartment Move-In Checklist: Key Inspections for Renters

Moving into a new rental home in Missouri is exciting, but it’s also important to protect yourself from any disputes with your landlord later on. Before signing a lease or accepting keys, conducting a detailed move-in inspection ensures you know the condition of your new place and helps safeguard your security deposit. In Missouri, both renters and landlords have specific rights and responsibilities when it comes to move-in inspections, guided by the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law.

Why Is a Move-In Inspection Important?

A move-in inspection documents the condition of your rental at the start of your lease. This can prevent disagreements about existing damage and is essential for protecting your security deposit when you move out.

What to Inspect Before You Move In

Before signing any documents or accepting keys:

• Walls and Ceilings: Look for scratches, holes, peeling paint, water stains, or signs of mold.
• Floors and Carpets: Check for stains, rips, chips, or loose boards.
• Doors and Windows: Ensure all open, close, and lock properly. Test screens and check for drafts.
• Plumbing: Run sinks, toilets, and showers; look for leaks, water pressure issues, or signs of mildew.
• Electrical: Test all lights, outlets, and appliances; check for exposed wiring.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Make sure these are present and working (required by Missouri law).
• Heating and Cooling: Test both systems, especially during extreme weather seasons.
• Kitchen Appliances: Run the stove, oven, microwave, fridge, and dishwasher.
• Exterior: Inspect porches, balconies, common areas, and parking if applicable.

Document everything with photos or videos and note any existing damage or concerns on a written checklist. Ask your landlord for a copy of any inspection forms or move-in checklists they use.

Required Disclosures and Forms in Missouri

Missouri law requires landlords to disclose certain information before a tenant moves in:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required for homes built before 1978. The Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form must be provided to tenants along with a government booklet on lead hazards. Example: If your rental was constructed in 1975, the landlord must give you the completed form and pamphlet before move-in.
• Identification of Owner/Manager: Landlords must make sure tenants know who is authorized to manage the property and receive legal notices. This is usually included in the lease per Missouri Revised Statutes Section 535.185.

There is no official statewide rental inspection checklist form from Missouri agencies, but you can ask your landlord if they have a company checklist or use sample checklists suggested by the Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Guide.

Security Deposit Considerations

Missouri limits security deposits to two months’ rent (Section 535.300). A detailed move-in checklist helps document pre-existing conditions so you aren’t charged for them upon move-out. Always request a signed copy from the landlord.

What to Do If You Find Issues

If you notice problems during your inspection, notify your landlord in writing right away. Ask for repairs to be made or for existing damage to be noted so you are not held liable later. For serious health or safety issues that aren’t fixed, contact local health or building authorities or see the resources at the end of this article.

FAQ: Missouri Renters’ Move-In Inspections

1. What if my landlord refuses a walk-through inspection?
   If your landlord won’t do a joint inspection, you can still complete your own checklist and share a signed and dated copy (with photos) by email or certified mail as a record.
2. Do I get a copy of the move-in checklist?
   Always ask for a signed copy from the landlord. If none is provided, keep your own document and send a copy to the landlord for their records.
3. Are landlords required to fix everything I find during inspection?
   Landlords in Missouri must address anything affecting health, safety, or habitability, but minor cosmetic issues might not require repair. Always request repairs in writing.
4. What should I do if repairs aren't made?
   If repairs are not made after written notice, you can contact local housing code enforcement or consult legal resources such as the Missouri Attorney General’s office for next steps.
5. Is a move-in checklist legally required in Missouri?
   No state law requires an official move-in checklist, but using one is strongly recommended to protect your interests and your deposit.

Key Takeaways

• Inspect every part of your rental and document the condition thoroughly before signing a Missouri lease.
• Use checklists, photos, and written communication to record any damages or needed repairs.
• Always keep copies of disclosures or forms the landlord provides, and follow up in writing if issues arise.

Following these steps can save you time, money, and help protect your rights as a Missouri renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law – Guidance and publications for renters and landlords.
• Missouri Courts Tenant-Landlord Self-Help Guide
• For disputes or complaints, contact your local city or county public health department.
• Tribunal for rental disputes: Missouri Circuit Courts handle landlord-tenant cases. Find your local court on the official site.

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535 – Landlord-Tenant Law
2. Missouri Attorney General’s Guide: Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords
3. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirement – EPA Lead Disclosure Rules
4. Missouri Circuit Courts – Official Judiciary Portal

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