Missouri Lease Addendums: What Renters Need to Know

Renting in Missouri comes with specific rights and responsibilities, especially when it comes to lease agreements. Many landlords add extra documents known as lease addendums—which can affect your daily life, rental costs, and even your ability to renew. Understanding these addendums under Missouri law can help protect your interests and maintain a smooth rental experience.

Understanding Lease Addendums in Missouri

A lease addendum is an additional legal document attached to your original lease agreement. In Missouri, these addendums are enforceable if both parties agree and sign them. They may lay out unique terms or clarify responsibilities that aren't found in your main lease. Examples include rules about pets, late fees, renovations, or how maintenance requests are handled.

Common Lease Addendums Missouri Tenants Encounter

Here are some typical topics covered by addendums in Missouri rental agreements:

• Pet Policies: Outlines pet deposits, restrictions, or cleaning rules
• Maintenance Responsibilities: Details who handles repairs or lawn care
• Utilities and Services: Clarifies who pays which bills and what services are included
• Guest & Occupancy Rules: Sets limits for overnight guests or total occupants
• Rent Increases: Explains notice period and conditions for raising rent
• Early Termination: Describes penalties if you break the lease early
• Mold Disclosure: Provides information or requirements about mold prevention and remediation

Always review every addendum carefully before signing. If something is unclear, ask your landlord or seek advice before agreeing.

Your Rights with Lease Addendums under Missouri Law

Missouri doesn't have a statewide rent control law, but does require that leases—including addendums—are honest, clear, and mutually agreed upon. Addendums cannot override your basic rights as outlined in the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 441 RSMo)^[1]. If an addendum tries to waive essential protections, those provisions may not be valid.

State Requirements for Disclosures and Addendums

• Mold and Lead Disclosure: Missouri landlords must provide specific disclosures for lead-based paint (for rentals built before 1978) and, in some cases, information about mold issues.
• Security Deposit Addendum: If a landlord uses a separate addendum for security deposits, it must comply with Section 535.300 RSMo.

Important Missouri Lease Addendum Forms and When to Use Them

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (No. EPA 747-K-99-001)
  When to Use: Required for any rental built before 1978. As a tenant, ensure you receive and review this form before you move in.
  View the official Lead Disclosure Form and instructions
• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist
  When to Use: Complete at move-in and move-out to document property condition. Use this checklist to avoid disputes over your security deposit.
  Download sample checklist from the Missouri Attorney General
• Missouri Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  When to Use: File if your landlord violates state law or lease terms, including illegal addendums.
  Submit a complaint to the Missouri Attorney General

Remember, always keep copies of everything you sign and any official forms exchanged with your landlord.

What Happens if You Disagree with an Addendum?

If you are presented with an addendum you disagree with, you are not required to sign it. If you feel pressured or believe the addendum is unfair or illegal, contact your local legal aid office or the Missouri Attorney General's office for help.

How Lease Addendums Are Enforced

Once signed, an addendum becomes part of your lease agreement. Either party may be held legally responsible for violating its terms. Disputes are handled under the jurisdiction of Missouri's Circuit Court—Associate Circuit (Small Claims) Division, which deals with residential landlord-tenant matters.^[2]

FAQ: Missouri Lease Addendums and Tenant Rights

1. Do I have to sign every lease addendum my landlord gives me?
   You are only required to sign addendums you agree with. If the addendum changes your original lease or affects your rights, review it carefully and seek clarification before signing.
2. Can a lease addendum increase my rent immediately in Missouri?
   No. Missouri law requires landlords to provide advance written notice for any rent increase, as outlined in your lease. Sudden changes via an addendum are not valid unless you agree in writing and proper notice is given.
3. Is a lead paint disclosure required with all Missouri lease agreements?
   Yes, for buildings constructed before 1978, landlords must provide tenants with a federal lead-based paint disclosure form.
4. What if my landlord won't honor terms in an addendum?
   If your landlord isn't following the agreed addendum, document your requests and responses, and consider filing a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General.
5. Where do I resolve lease disputes in Missouri?
   Lease and addendum disputes are handled by the Associate Circuit (Small Claims) Court.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Lease addendums are legally binding only if both parties agree and sign
• Never sign an addendum you don't fully understand—ask questions or seek help
• Use official forms and keep signed copies for your records

Staying informed about your lease protects your rental experience and your wallet. When unsure, tap into official resources for renters in Missouri.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General—Landlord/Tenant Complaints: File or track complaints against landlords or property managers
• Missouri Housing Development Commission: Tenant Resources
• Missouri Circuit Courts: Small Claims Division: Handles landlord-tenant disputes
• Legal Services of Missouri: Free legal help for eligible renters
• Full Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 441 RSMo)

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1. Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law: Chapter 441 RSMo
2. Tribunal for residential tenancy disputes: Missouri Circuit Courts—Small Claims
3. Lead Disclosure Regulations: EPA Lead Disclosure for Renters
4. Missouri Security Deposit Law: Section 535.300 RSMo

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