Missouri Rules on Rent Gouging: What Renters Need to Know

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Missouri, you may wonder whether your landlord can raise your rent at any time, or if there are limits to how much they can increase. In this guide, we explain how Missouri law regulates rent increases, what rent gouging means, and what protections exist for renters experiencing significant hikes in rent.

Understanding Rent Gouging in Missouri

Rent gouging refers to landlords dramatically increasing rent beyond fair market value, especially during emergencies or housing shortages. While some states set clear caps or limits on rent hikes, Missouri's laws are more limited—there is no statewide rent control law for private rental units.

Missouri Law on Rent Increases

Missouri currently allows landlords of private residential properties to raise rent as they choose, as long as they follow the rules of notification and abide by any lease agreements. Here’s what you need to know:

• No Statewide Cap on Rent: Missouri law does not set a maximum percentage for how much rent can be raised.^[1]
• Advance Notice Required: Landlords must give at least one full rent period’s written notice (typically 30 days for month-to-month tenants) before any change in rent takes effect.^[1]
• No Prohibition on Rent Gouging: Missouri does not have specific statutes against rent gouging or excessive rent increases, except during officially declared emergencies (see below).

Special Protections During Emergencies

During state or federal emergencies (such as a declared disaster), certain executive orders or local ordinances might temporarily ban rent gouging. Check with your local Missouri Attorney General’s office for current price gouging laws and orders during emergencies.

Notifying Tenants About Rent Increases

Your landlord must give advance written notice before raising your rent. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords usually provide 30 days’ notice before your next rental payment is due. Always check your lease for exact terms, as longer leases may have different rules.

What Is Considered ‘Unlawful’ in Missouri?

• Increasing rent without proper written notice
• Raising rent during the middle of a fixed-term lease (unless the lease allows it)
• Applying rent increases in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner (for example, because a tenant complained about repairs)

Rent increases that are not properly noticed, or that are used to punish a tenant for standing up for their rights, may be challenged under Missouri law.^[2]

Key Missouri Legislation for Renters

• Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant
• Chapter 535 – Proceedings for Recovery of Possession

These statutes outline rental terms, evictions, and notification procedures. Review the full text for your protections and obligations.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Missouri?

Concerns about rental increases, evictions, or disputes between tenants and landlords are handled in the local Missouri Circuit Courts, which include associate circuit courts for landlord-tenant matters.

Relevant Forms for Missouri Renters

• Notice to Vacate Form (No. N/A): Used when either a landlord or tenant wants to end a month-to-month tenancy. For example, if a tenant receives a rent increase they can't afford, they can give proper notice to move out. View Sample Notice to Vacate on the Missouri Courts website.
• Petition for Rent and Possession (Form CC40.1): Used by landlords if seeking eviction due to non-payment. Tenants may review this if they believe an increase or demand is unlawful. Petition for Rent and Possession (Official Missouri Courts form)

Steps If You Think Your Rent Increase Is Unfair

If you suspect a rent hike is retaliatory, discriminatory, or was not properly noticed, consider the following actions:

• Request written clarification from your landlord
• Gather copies of your lease, rent increase notice, and past correspondence
• Contact Missouri Legal Services or your local advocacy organization for support
• If necessary, file a complaint or seek mediation through your local circuit court

FAQ: Missouri Rent Gouging and Rent Increases

1. Does Missouri have rent control?
   No, Missouri does not have statewide rent control laws limiting rent increases for most residential properties.
2. How much notice must a landlord give for a rent increase?
   Landlords must give at least one full rental period's written notice—typically 30 days for month-to-month agreements.
3. Is there a limit on how much my rent can increase in Missouri?
   No specific state limit applies, but increases must comply with notice laws and not be discriminatory or retaliatory.
4. What should I do if I believe my rent increase is unfair?
   Keep records, communicate in writing with your landlord, and seek guidance from Missouri Legal Services or the local courts.
5. What forms do I use if I decide to move out because of rent increase?
   Use a written Notice to Vacate, providing your landlord with the required period of notice according to your lease terms.

Summary: Key Points for Missouri Renters

• There are no statewide rent control rules or limits on rent increases in Missouri.
• Landlords must provide proper written notice before raising rent.
• If you face a steep or sudden rent increase, review your lease, protect your rights, and seek help if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Courts – Circuit Courts: For filing rental disputes or finding your local court.
• Missouri Attorney General – Price Gouging Complaints: For reporting suspected unlawful rent increases during emergencies.
• Legal Services of Missouri: Free legal help and advice for qualifying renters facing eviction, rent increases, or disputes.
• Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law (Chapter 441)

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1. [1] Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441.020
2. [2] Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 441.223, Retaliatory Conduct

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