Missouri Renter Rights: What Every Tenant Should Know

Understanding your renter rights in Missouri can help you feel confident when facing issues like rent increases, evictions, or repair delays. This guide covers your most important rights and responsibilities, explains key protections, and links to official Missouri resources—so you always know where you stand.

Key Rights and Responsibilities of Renters in Missouri

Missouri’s rental laws, outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535 – Landlord-Tenant Actions^[1], protect both tenants and landlords. Here are the essentials:

• Safe, habitable housing: Landlords must provide housing that meets health and safety standards.
• Privacy: Landlords should provide reasonable notice (generally 24 hours) before entering the rental.
• Return of security deposit: Deposits must be returned within 30 days after you move out, minus any lawful deductions.
• Freedom from retaliation: It’s illegal for a landlord to evict you or raise your rent solely because you’ve made a legitimate complaint.
• Prompt repairs: If vital repairs aren’t made, Missouri law allows you to give written notice and, in some cases, withhold rent or seek help from local officials.

Both renters and landlords must follow the lease agreement and state law. Being informed can help avoid misunderstandings and legal conflicts.

Understanding Rent, Deposits, and Rent Increases

Security Deposits

• Landlords can collect up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.
• After moving out, the deposit (minus lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent) must be returned within 30 days.
• Ask for a walk-through inspection and return of your deposit in writing.

Rent Increases

• Missouri law does not limit how much a landlord can raise rent for most private rentals.
• Rent increases can only apply after your lease term is up or, if you’re on a month-to-month agreement, after providing written notice (typically 30 days).
• Your lease may address how and when rent can be increased.

What If Repairs Aren’t Made? Your Right to a Habitable Home

Landlords must keep rental properties safe and in good repair. If repairs are needed:

• First, notify your landlord in writing about the repair needed. Keep a copy for your records.
• If there’s no response in a "reasonable" time, you may be allowed to make limited repairs and deduct costs, or contact your local health or building inspector.

Making a Complaint

For issues that are not resolved, you can contact your local city or county housing code office. If your landlord takes action against you for asserting your rights (such as an eviction), Missouri law protects you against retaliation.

Evictions in Missouri: Process and Protections

Landlords cannot evict you without cause and court procedure. Most common eviction reasons include:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Lease violations
• End of lease term, with proper notice

The landlord must give you proper notice before filing an eviction lawsuit, called an "unlawful detainer action." If you receive a "Summons and Petition for Unlawful Detainer," you have the right to appear in court.

Eviction Forms and Process

• Form: Summons and Petition for Unlawful Detainer (CCAD105) – Used when a landlord files for eviction in Missouri courts. If you receive this form, act quickly to understand your rights and prepare your defense. View sample forms on the Missouri Judiciary Court Forms website.
• Form: Answer to Petition for Rent and Possession – This optional form is your response to an eviction filing. By submitting it, you can outline your side and any legal defenses. Learn more and access forms at the official Missouri Courts – Landlord/Tenant Forms.

If you receive an eviction notice, read it carefully and do not ignore any court papers. Attend all hearings to present your side.

Who Oversees Tenant-Landlord Disputes?

Residential disputes in Missouri are handled by the county circuit court where the property is located. You can start by reaching out to your local court’s civil or small claims division. To find your local court, visit the Missouri Circuit Courts Directory.^[2]

Which Law Governs Missouri Renters?

Missouri tenant rights are covered under the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant and Chapter 535 – Landlord-Tenant Actions.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions about Missouri Renter Rights

1. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   They must return your deposit within 30 days after you move out, minus any documented deductions.
2. Can my landlord evict me without notice?
   No, landlords must provide written notice and follow court processes before an eviction can occur.
3. What repairs is my landlord required to make?
   Your landlord must fix issues affecting health, safety, or basic utilities. Notify them in writing if urgent repairs are needed.
4. Is there a limit on how much my landlord can raise the rent?
   Missouri law does not set a maximum limit, but increases must follow lease agreements and proper notice must be given.
5. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice?
   Read the notice, respond promptly (using an Answer form if needed), and attend any scheduled court hearings to explain your situation.

Conclusion: Missouri Renter Rights in a Nutshell

• Missouri law requires safe homes, returned deposits, and protection from unfair evictions.
• Always keep records and submit written notices for repairs or complaints.
• Use official resources and forms to assert your rights or respond to disputes.

Staying informed helps you avoid problems and assert your rights as a Missouri renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Missouri

• Missouri Attorney General’s Office – Landlord-Tenant Law: In-depth legal guidance and complaint forms
• Missouri Housing Development Commission: Rental aid, counseling, and housing resources
• Missouri Circuit Courts Directory: Find your county court for dispute resolution
• Official Missouri Landlord-Tenant Forms: Forms for eviction, defenses, or legal response

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 535 – Landlord-Tenant Actions
2. Missouri Circuit Courts Directory

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