Missouri Renters: Deducting Repair Costs Legally

Missouri renters have the right, in specific circumstances, to deduct the cost of vital repairs from their rent if a landlord fails to address dangerous or unlivable conditions. Understanding the legal process for this rent deduction is crucial for protecting your rights and avoiding problems with your landlord or potential eviction proceedings.

Understanding Missouri's Rent Deduction Law

Missouri law allows certain renters to use a "repair and deduct" remedy. This means you, as the tenant, can pay for urgent repairs out-of-pocket and then subtract the cost from your next month's rent. However, the process is strict and must be followed exactly to stay protected under Missouri Revised Statutes § 441.234.¹

What Repairs Qualify?

• Only certain repairs are covered—the issue must affect your health or safety. Examples: no heat in winter, broken plumbing, no hot/cold water, exposed wiring.
• The cost for all repairs deducted in one year cannot exceed either one month's rent or $300, whichever is greater.
• Cosmetic or minor issues are NOT covered by this law.

Before moving forward, make sure your repair need qualifies under state law. If you're unsure, you can contact the Missouri Attorney General's Office for guidance.

Step-By-Step: How to Use Missouri's Repair and Deduct Remedy

Following the correct steps to apply a rent deduction for repairs is vital. If you skip required notices or deadlines, you could risk eviction for nonpayment.

• Document the problem – Take clear photos and keep records of the issue's impact on your health or safety.
• Provide Written Notice to the Landlord – Send a written request informing your landlord of the issue. Under Missouri law, the notice must be mailed or delivered and should describe the repair needed and state that you will deduct the cost if it's not fixed within 14 days.
• Wait the full 14 days – The landlord has 14 days after notice to make the repair.
• Hire a qualified professional – After the deadline passes, hire someone who can legally provide the service. Get a detailed, dated invoice.
• Deduct the paid amount from your next month’s rent – Attach a copy of your receipts and a written statement to your landlord when paying reduced rent.

If you follow these steps, Missouri law protects you from eviction for the deducted amount—but not if you skip a step or miss a deadline.

Required Notice: Sample Landlord Notification Form

While Missouri does not have an official "Repair and Deduct Notice" form, your written notice must contain:

• Your name, rental address, and date
• A clear description of the urgent repair needed
• A statement giving the landlord 14 days to fix the issue (or less in emergencies)
• Your intent to use the rent deduction if it's not addressed

You may create a letter using these details or use templates provided by the Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Law Guide.² Always send your notice by certified mail or request a signed receipt for personal delivery.

Tribunal Handling Tenancy Matters in Missouri

In Missouri, the local Circuit Court in your county handles landlord-tenant disputes, including any action that a landlord may bring following a rent deduction. For information or to find your local court, visit the Missouri Courts - Find a Court page.³

Summary: Missouri Renters and the Repair Deduction Law

The Missouri "repair and deduct" process is your legal tool for protecting your right to safe housing when repairs go ignored. Follow the notice requirements, act promptly, and stay within the cost limits set by law.

FAQ

1. Can I deduct repair costs for minor issues like painting or replacing blinds?
   No, Missouri’s law only covers urgent repairs affecting health or safety, not cosmetic or minor maintenance.
2. What if my landlord tries to evict me after I deduct repair costs?
   If you followed the legal requirements, you are protected from eviction for the deducted amount. Always keep documentation. If served with an eviction notice, contact the local Circuit Court or legal aid for assistance.
3. Are there limits to how much I can deduct for repairs?
   Yes. The total amount deducted in a twelve-month period cannot exceed the greater of one month's rent or $300.
4. Do I need to provide the landlord with the receipt?
   Yes. You must give a copy of the repair invoice and a written explanation with your partial rent payment.
5. Is there an official Missouri form for the repair and deduct notice?
   There is no statewide official form. You must write your own notice including key legal details; see the Missouri Attorney General's sample letters for guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Use Missouri’s "repair and deduct" only for urgent issues affecting safety or health.
• You must give written notice and wait 14 days before deducting repair costs.
• Keep thorough documentation and never exceed legal deduction limits.

By following Missouri law, you protect both your home and your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
• Missouri Courts – Find Your Local Circuit Court
• Legal Aid of Missouri – Free or low-cost legal help for qualifying tenants
• For urgent housing code violations, contact your local city or county housing office

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes § 441.234 – Tenant’s right to repair and deduct
2. Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Guide: Repairs
3. Official Missouri Courts website

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