Missouri Rent Control Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Renters in Missouri often wonder about limits on rent increases and whether rent control might be on the horizon. Missouri does not currently have statewide rent control laws, and the subject of rent control legislation remains a topic of discussion among lawmakers and advocates. This article explains what renters need to know about rent control, outlines what the future could look like in Missouri, and shares actionable advice and resources for tenants.

What Is Rent Control and Does Missouri Have It?

Rent control refers to local or state laws that limit how much landlords can raise rent each year. Some states and cities use rent control to help keep housing affordable, but Missouri does not have any form of rent control or rent stabilization at the state level. In fact, Missouri law (Section 441.043) actually prohibits cities and counties from enacting their own rent control ordinances except under very limited circumstances¹.

• Landlords in Missouri may set rent amounts and increase rent without any legal caps—unless a written lease restricts increases.
• Cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield cannot create their own rent control rules for privately-owned residential properties.

The Future of Rent Control Legislation in Missouri

While there are periodic conversations about housing affordability and tenant protections, there are currently no major rent control bills scheduled for debate in the Missouri General Assembly. Any changes to existing policy would require revisions to Section 441.043 of Missouri law.¹

What Would Have to Change?

Before rent control could be considered in Missouri, lawmakers would need to:

• Propose and pass amendments removing or updating the current state ban on local rent control ordinances.
• Hold public hearings to gather input from renters, landlords, and housing experts.
• Draft new tenant protection rules, which could include rent caps, limits on rent increases, or eviction protections.

Currently, the focus in Missouri tends to be on voluntary landlord-tenant mediation and improving access to housing resources. Tenants should stay informed by monitoring updates from the Missouri General Assembly and local city governments.

Your Rights as a Missouri Renter

Even though Missouri does not currently consider rent control, renters still have certain protections under the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 441)²:

• Landlords must provide proper written notice before raising rent (typically at least one rental period, such as 30 days, unless your lease says otherwise).
• Security deposits are capped at no more than two months' rent.
• Landlords must maintain rental properties in good repair and respond to maintenance requests.
• Renters have a right to due process before eviction.

Missouri Official Forms and Where to Find Them

Missouri does not provide "rent control" application forms because no such policy exists. However, renters often need official forms for other tenancy issues:

• Petition for Rent and Possession (Form CC76)
  • When Used: Landlords use this in court to request eviction for nonpayment, but renters can review it if facing such actions.
  • How Used: If you receive a summons, you must respond and can appear at your scheduled hearing.
  • See Form CC76 on Missouri Courts
• Answer to Petition (No standard form, but you may respond in writing)
  • When Used: If you receive a petition or summons, you can file an answer explaining your side. Respond promptly to avoid a default judgment.
  • Learn how to respond to petitions
• Request for Security Deposit Return (No official number)
  • When Used: After moving out, use written notice to ask your landlord to return your deposit within 30 days.
  • Sample deposit request on Missouri Attorney General site

Who Handles Rent Disputes in Missouri?

Claims about rent, eviction, or habitability are generally handled in local Missouri Circuit Courts, which serve as the main authority for residential tenancy matters in the state. There is no statewide housing tribunal, but some cities may offer voluntary mediation programs.

Summary: Missouri's Approach to Rent Control

Missouri has a statewide ban on rent control for most private residential properties. Lawmakers are not currently considering changes, but renters should always monitor Missouri legislative activity for updates. If you are facing steep rent increases, open communication with your landlord and reviewing your lease are your first steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Missouri have any rent control laws?
   No. Missouri does not allow cities or counties to pass rent control measures for private residential units.
2. Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
   Landlords must provide advance written notice—usually 30 days—for any rent increase if you are on a month-to-month lease.
3. What should I do if I can’t afford a rent increase?
   Talk with your landlord, check local social service programs, and review your lease. You might also seek legal advice or mediation through local courts or housing agencies.
4. Who do I contact if I have a dispute over rent or eviction?
   Residential tenancy disputes are filed in your local Missouri Circuit Court. You can also call the Missouri Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division for help.
5. Are there protections for seniors or disabled renters in Missouri?
   There are no specific rent control protections for these groups, but some federal programs and advocacy organizations may offer additional help.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri law currently prohibits all local rent control policies for private housing.
• Rent increases are legal with proper written notice; review your lease terms for specifics.
• Stay informed about legislative changes and seek official support for any rent or tenancy disputes.

Understanding your rights helps you make informed decisions and seek support if needed. Keep good records, communicate openly, and use official resources to protect yourself as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law Guide — Tenant protections, complaint information, and sample letters
• Missouri Courts — Find your local Circuit Court for filing or answering landlord-tenant cases
• Missouri Housing Development Commission — Rental assistance programs and tenant support
• Missouri Disability Portal: Housing — Support for renters with disabilities
• Missouri General Assembly Bill Tracker — Monitor new legislation affecting renters

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 441.043 – Prohibition on Rent Control
2. Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 441)

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