Missouri Apartment Renters: Who Pays for Internet Service?

Missouri renters often have questions about internet service in their apartments—who is responsible for setting it up, paying for it, and making sure it works? Understanding your rights and options under Missouri law helps you avoid surprises on your monthly bills and know how to address any problems that come up with your landlord about internet access.

Who Is Responsible for Internet Service in Missouri Rental Apartments?

Generally, Missouri landlords are not required by law to provide internet service to tenants. Internet is typically considered a non-essential utility (unlike electricity or water). Instead:

• Your lease agreement controls who pays for and sets up internet. Always read your lease!
• If internet is advertised as ‘included,’ or listed as a provided amenity, your landlord is responsible for providing and maintaining it as described.
• If internet is not mentioned, tenants usually set up and pay for their own service using a provider of their choice.
• Landlords cannot unreasonably restrict you from obtaining service from a legal provider unless the building has exclusive service agreements, which must be stated in the lease.

For detailed utility rights, review the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant.¹

Internet Fees, Access, and Leasing Terms

If your landlord offers internet as part of the rental agreement, the following might apply:

• The cost may be bundled into rent or listed as a separate monthly charge.
• The lease should specify troubleshooting and repair responsibilities.
• If access becomes unreliable or unavailable and internet is a promised amenity, tenants can request repairs or a rent adjustment.

If you need to request installation or repairs through your landlord, written communication is best.

Setting Up Your Own Internet Service

When the lease doesn’t mention internet, tenants can usually choose their own provider. Landlords should allow reasonable access for installation, but may have rules about drilling holes or adding equipment. If you have difficulty, ask your landlord for written permission if required.

If unsure, always keep a written record of your communications about utility access with your landlord.

What Forms or Complaints Can Missouri Renters Use?

Missouri does not have a specific state form for internet complaints, but if the issue relates to lack of access to promised utilities or amenities, you may need to use one of the following:

• Complaint to Local Housing Authority: File a complaint if the landlord fails to provide listed amenities in the lease. Each city and county may have a local occupancy/housing complaint form, such as in St. Louis.
• Court Filings for Lease Violations: If negotiation fails, tenants may file a claim with their local circuit court, referencing the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 for tenant protections.

For lease enforcement, use the "Petition/Complaint For Rent and Possession – Form 11.05" (Official PDF here) if you need to address disputes before a judge. A typical example is when a landlord continues to charge for a service not delivered as promised. Always consult your nearest legal aid office or circuit court clerk for filing help.

Which Missouri Agency Handles Apartment Utility Disputes?

For rental disputes—including those about internet as a utility promised in the lease—cases are heard by the Missouri circuit courts. There is no separate landlord-tenant tribunal. For consumer issues involving internet providers, the Missouri Public Service Commission can assist.

What Missouri Law Says About Utilities and Amenities

The Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441, covers most rental and utility obligations, including landlord duties for essential services. While internet is not considered "essential," when listed in the lease, it carries legal weight for both parties.¹

FAQ: Missouri Renters and Internet Service

1. Is my landlord required to provide internet in a Missouri apartment?
   Not by law—unless your lease agreement says internet is included or promised, you’re usually responsible for arranging your own service.
2. Can my landlord stop me from getting my own internet service?
   In most cases, no. Your landlord can set reasonable rules for property changes (e.g., drilling or installation), but should not unreasonably prevent legal access to service.
3. What if my landlord charges for internet but doesn’t provide it?
   You may file a complaint with your local housing authority, request a refund, and document everything. Unresolved issues may be addressed in your local circuit court.
4. Where do I file a legal complaint about utility issues in my rental?
   Claims for lease violations or unfulfilled amenities go to Missouri’s circuit courts. Each county has its own court, so check local listings or visit the Missouri Courts webpage.
5. Does the law require my landlord to fix slow or unreliable internet?
   Only if high-speed internet is specified as a provided service in your lease. Otherwise, it’s the tenant’s responsibility.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri law doesn’t require landlords to provide internet unless your lease says so.
• Check your rental agreement for utility responsibility.
• Use written records for all requests or disputes about internet access or fees.

Knowing these basics will help you avoid common disputes and navigate internet access in your Missouri rental apartment.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Circuit Courts – Find Your Local Court
• Missouri Public Service Commission – Utility Complaints
• Legal Services of Missouri – Free Civil Legal Aid
• Missouri Attorney General – Consumer Complaints

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant Law

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