Missouri Rental Utilities: Who Pays and What the Law Says

Understanding who is responsible for paying utilities in a Missouri rental is essential for renters. Whether it's electricity, water, gas, or trash, Missouri law and your lease agreement determine who pays these bills. This guide explains what state law says, your rights as a tenant, and what to do if there's a dispute over utilities.

Who Pays for Utilities in Missouri Rentals?

In Missouri, the responsibility for paying utilities is usually decided by your lease or rental agreement. The Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant Law outlines general rules, but most decisions about utilities are left up to both parties to agree in writing.^[1]

• If your lease says the landlord pays: They must ensure services remain on and billed as stated.
• If the lease says you pay: You’re responsible for prompt payment of those utilities.
• If the lease is silent: It’s a good idea to clarify and get any agreement in writing to avoid confusion later.

Common Utility Arrangements

• Electricity, gas, and water are often in the tenant’s name if you are renting a single-family property.
• For apartments or units with shared meters (“master-metered”), the landlord may pay and divide costs, or include utilities in your rent.
• Trash and sewer fees may sometimes be paid by either party—look for this in your lease.

When utilities are included in rent, it must be stated clearly in your lease. If no mention is made, ask your landlord for clarification before signing.

Missouri Law: Utilities & Tenant Protections

Missouri state law does not require landlords to provide utilities unless listed in your rental agreement. However, landlords must supply a safe and habitable property under the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law.^[1]

• Landlords cannot shut off utilities to force tenants to move out ("self-help eviction"). This is prohibited under Missouri law.
• If the landlord is supposed to provide utilities (per lease), and they are disconnected due to nonpayment by the landlord, tenants have legal recourse.

What If the Landlord Shuts Off Utilities?

If your landlord illegally disconnects utilities, contact the city or local housing authority. In Missouri, you may also file a complaint with your local circuit court. You can seek legal remedy, including possible damages.

The official body handling residential tenancy disputes in Missouri is your Missouri Circuit Court. This is where you would file complaints or legal actions related to rental issues.

Relevant Missouri Forms

• Petition – Rent and Possession (Missouri Supreme Court Form 8-A): Used if a landlord claims a tenant owes rent (including for utilities, if stated in lease). Available at Missouri Courts – Rent & Possession Petition.
• Pro Se Motion (General): If you're representing yourself and need to file a motion (for example, due to illegal utility shut-off), you can use this form, found at Missouri Courts – Self-Represented Litigant Forms.

For example: If your landlord is responsible for utilities but has let the account lapse and your water is cut off, you can file a motion in circuit court seeking an order for restoration and compensation.

FAQ: Missouri Renters and Utility Bills

1. Can a landlord shut off my utilities if I owe rent?
   No. Landlords cannot legally disconnect utilities to force payment or eviction. Only a court order or proper legal process allows eviction or utility shut-off.
2. What happens if the landlord doesn't pay a utility that's in their name?
   If your lease says the landlord is responsible, and they fail to pay so your utilities are disconnected, you may have the right to break the lease or sue for damages. Contact your local circuit court for next steps.
3. If my lease says nothing about utilities, who pays?
   Responsibility is unclear if not spelled out. Ask for clarification and get an agreement in writing before moving in.
4. Where do I file a dispute about utility shut-off in a rental?
   Utility-related disputes are usually handled at your Missouri Circuit Court. They process tenant-landlord complaints, including utility issues.
5. Can the landlord include utilities as part of rent?
   Yes, but this must be stated clearly in your lease agreement.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Utility payment responsibility is determined by your lease agreement. Clarify before you sign.
• Landlords cannot shut off utilities as a form of eviction—this is illegal.
• If utility responsibilities aren't clear, communicate with your landlord and get any agreements in writing.

Knowing your rights helps protect you from unexpected utility costs or disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Circuit Courts – File complaints or get forms for rental disputes
• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law – Informational resources and tenant rights
• Missouri Housing Development Commission – Rental assistance and housing help
• For local support, check your city’s housing or neighborhood services department

---

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

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations