Can a landlord refuse to renew my lease for any reason in Missouri?

Yes, provided the reason is not discriminatory or retaliatory. Landlords are not required to state a reason but must follow fair housing and anti-retaliation laws.

How much notice does my landlord have to give to end my lease?

For month-to-month leases, at least 30 days' written notice is required. For week-to-week, it's at least 7 days. Fixed-term leases usually end without extra notice.

What if I think my nonrenewal is based on discrimination?

Contact the Missouri Commission on Human Rights to file a complaint if you believe your lease was not renewed for a discriminatory reason.

Can I request a lease renewal in writing?

Yes, and it is good practice. While your landlord isn't required to renew, communicating in writing helps keep a record of your request and their response.

Where can I find official information about Missouri lease laws?

Check the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 and the Missouri Attorney General’s Office for official tenant-landlord law resources.

Missouri Landlords: Lease Renewal Rules and Your Rights

Lease Agreements & Renewals Missouri published: June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Missouri, understanding when a landlord can refuse to renew your lease can help you prepare and protect your housing situation. In Missouri, landlords and tenants alike have specific rights and responsibilities under state law covering leases, renewals, and when a lease can end without renewal.

Missouri Lease Renewals: The Basics

In Missouri, most residential leases are either fixed-term (lasting a set period, like one year) or month-to-month. When that period ends, your landlord is not generally obligated to renew unless your lease or local rules say otherwise.
If your lease does not promise renewal, your landlord typically has the right to not renew for almost any reason—as long as it’s not illegal or discriminatory.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew a Lease?

No-Cause Nonrenewal: Landlords may choose not to renew your lease for any lawful reason, or no reason, with proper written notice.
Prohibited Reasons: They cannot refuse to renew because of your race, religion, national origin, disability, sex, or other protected status under federal and Missouri law. It is also illegal to retaliate against you for exercising your legal rights (for example, making a maintenance complaint).

Check your lease for specific renewal clauses, as some agreements automatically convert to month-to-month unless one party gives notice.

Notice Requirements for Nonrenewal

Missouri state law sets minimum notice periods for ending different types of leases:

Fixed-Term Lease (e.g., 1-year): Ends automatically on the stated date—neither party is required to provide further notice unless your lease says so.
Month-to-Month Lease: The landlord must provide you with at least one month’s written notice if they plan not to renew.
Week-to-Week Lease: At least seven days’ written notice must be given.

Written notice can be hand-delivered or mailed to you (check the terms in your lease).

Relevant Missouri Forms and How They Work

Landlords typically must use a written notice form to end month-to-month or week-to-week tenancies. There is no single government-issued form, but the "Notice to Vacate" or "Notice of Termination of Tenancy" is required.

Name: Notice to Vacate (No form number; landlord- or tenant-drafted)
When to Use: When a landlord decides not to renew a month-to-month tenancy, they provide this written notice at least 30 days in advance.
Example: If your lease is month-to-month and your landlord wishes to end it on June 30, they must get you written notice by May 31.
Official Guidance: See detailed information on Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Law page.

There is no fee for the notice. Keep a copy for your records in case of disputes.

Your Rights if Renewal Is Denied

If your landlord refuses to renew, you have the right to:

Remain until your lease ends or the notice period expires
Receive a return of your security deposit, less lawful deductions, within 30 days after moving out
Challenge the nonrenewal if you suspect it is based on retaliation or discrimination (Contact the Missouri Commission on Human Rights)

Tip: If you aren’t sure whether your landlord’s reason is legal, document all communication and seek help from the Missouri Attorney General’s Office or legal aid.

What If I Don’t Leave After the Lease Ends?

If you stay beyond the end of your lease or the notice period without your landlord's agreement, you may be considered a "holdover tenant." The landlord may then begin eviction proceedings in state court. Missouri landlords must follow specific eviction procedures; you cannot be forcibly removed without a court order.

For more, review the Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.060 (Termination of Tenancy).

Who Handles Lease Disputes and Rental Protections?

Residential rental disputes in Missouri—including those over lease renewals—are handled by the state court system. Tenants can also seek guidance from:

The main legislation covering leases is Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441: Landlord and Tenant Law.^1–2

FAQ: Missouri Renters and Lease Renewals

Can a landlord refuse to renew my lease for any reason in Missouri? Yes, unless the reason is discriminatory or retaliatory. Landlords do not have to provide a reason but cannot break fair housing or retaliation laws.
How much notice does my landlord have to give to end my lease? For month-to-month leases, at least 30 days' written notice. For week-to-week leases, at least 7 days. Fixed-term leases usually require no notice at the end.
What if I think my nonrenewal is discriminatory? Contact the Missouri Commission on Human Rights right away to file a complaint.
Can I ask for a lease renewal in writing? Yes. It's best to request a renewal in writing so there’s a record. Your landlord is not required to accept but may respond or clarify their intentions.
Where can I find official information about Missouri lease laws? Visit the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 and the Missouri Attorney General’s tenant resources.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

Landlords in Missouri can usually refuse to renew leases with proper notice, except for illegal reasons.
Written notice requirements depend on your lease type; always keep copies.
If you suspect illegal nonrenewal, document everything and seek help from state resources.

Knowing your lease terms and your rights as a Missouri renter can help you navigate nonrenewal situations with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law – Official consumer guidance on leases, notices, and evictions.
Missouri Commission on Human Rights – Assistance and complaint filing for discrimination or retaliation.
Missouri State Courts – Where eviction and lease disputes are resolved.
Missouri Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal aid for qualifying renters.