Missouri Renters: How to Request Move-In Repairs

Getting ready to move into a new rental home is exciting, but it's important to ensure the property is safe and livable before you settle in. Missouri renters have rights when it comes to demanding repairs before move-in. Knowing your options and understanding the process helps you start your tenancy with confidence.

Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Home in Missouri

Missouri law requires landlords to provide rentals that are "habitable"—meaning they meet basic safety, health, and structural standards. If you notice damages, safety risks, or missing essentials (like plumbing or heating) during your pre-move-in inspection, you have the right to ask your landlord for repairs before you accept the keys.

• Learn about local housing codes and habitability standards from the Missouri Office of Prosecution Services.
• Common required repairs include fixing broken locks, addressing leaks, repairing appliances included in the lease, or clearing mold and pest problems.

What to Look for During a Pre-Move-In Inspection

Before signing your lease or paying your deposit, walk through the unit and document any damages or concerns. Take photos for your records. Some key areas to check:

• Plumbing (leaks, running toilets, water pressure)
• Electrical outlets and lights
• Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC)
• Doors and windows (locks and security)
• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
• Cleanliness and evidence of pests

Missouri's Required Landlord Disclosures

Under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.234, landlords must disclose if the rental has been cited for code violations that have not been fixed if those issues pose a danger to tenants' health or safety.

How to Demand Repairs Before Move-In

If you find issues that need fixing, use these steps before you move in:

• Document every issue with photos or notes.
• Prepare a written repair request listing the problems. Missouri does not have a statewide specific "demand for repairs before move-in" form, but a written letter or email is best for your records.
• Send your repair request to your landlord by mail or email. Include a reasonable deadline for repairs (e.g., "Please complete these repairs within 7 days").
• Keep copies of all communications and photos.

Example: How to Write and Use a Repair Request Letter

If the bathroom sink is leaking and the front door lock is broken, send a signed, dated letter or email: “I am requesting that the following repairs be completed before I move in: 1) Fix the leaking bathroom sink, 2) Repair or replace the broken front door lock.” Attach your photos.

While Missouri law doesn’t require landlords to use an official repair response form, this written communication helps protect your rights if there is a dispute later.

• See guidance on Move-In Checklist from the Missouri Attorney General.

What If Repairs Are Not Completed?

If the landlord refuses or ignores your repair request:

• You can choose not to move in until the issue is fixed (ensure you do not accept the keys or sign a lease).
• If you have already signed and repairs aren't made, you may contact your local building code office or health department.
• For unresolved disputes, you may need to pursue legal action in your local court—Missouri does not have a dedicated state-level landlord-tenant tribunal, but renters may use Missouri Circuit Courts for disputes.

Official Forms and Legislation

• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist — No state-mandated form, but you can use the Missouri Attorney General's sample checklist (see page 15). Use this before move-in to record the rental unit’s condition and share it with your landlord.
• Tribunal Handling Tenancy Disputes: Missouri Circuit Courts
• Relevant Legislation: Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 – Landlord-Tenant Law

FAQs for Missouri Renters

1. Can I refuse to move in if repairs aren’t made?
   You have the right to delay moving in until the property meets safety and habitability standards. Do not accept keys or sign a lease until you are satisfied with the repairs.
2. What if my landlord promises repairs after I move in?
   Get all promises in writing before you move in. If you move in first, you may need to use regular repair request processes under Missouri law.
3. Is there a specific form to demand repairs before moving in?
   No statewide official form exists. A written letter or email with details and photos is strongly recommended for documentation.
4. Who enforces renter rights in Missouri?
   Missouri Circuit Courts handle landlord-tenant disputes. Local building code offices or health departments may handle direct safety complaints.
5. Are landlords required to do inspections in Missouri?
   No, but many use checklists. Renters should always do their own inspection before move-in for their protection.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Inspect your new rental thoroughly and document all issues before move-in.
• Send a written repair request and keep records of all communications.
• Landlords must maintain safe, habitable homes under Missouri law.

Start your tenancy on the right track by ensuring the property is ready, safe, and comfortable—a few simple steps can make a major difference.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law Overview
• Missouri Housing Development Commission: Renter Assistance
• Missouri Circuit Courts: Find Your Local Court
• Local building code enforcement or health department: Find contacts through your city or county website.

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.234
2. Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law
3. Missouri Circuit Courts
4. Missouri Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Law Guide (with checklist)
5. Missouri Housing Development Commission: Rental Assistance and Advocacy

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