Missouri Tenant Final Walk-Through Checklist & Rights

As a Missouri renter getting ready to move out, the final walk-through is a chance to protect your security deposit and resolve potential issues with your landlord. This guide explains your rights and responsibilities under Missouri law, steps you should take during the walk-through, and official resources to help you move out with confidence.

Understanding the Final Walk-Through in Missouri

A final walk-through (sometimes called a move-out inspection) allows you and your landlord to examine the rental together. It's your opportunity to:

• Document the property's condition when you leave
• Identify any damages beyond normal wear and tear
• Discuss possible deductions from your security deposit

Missouri does not require landlords to do a walk-through before or at move-out, but it's highly recommended. Having a clear record helps both parties and can prevent disputes.

Your Missouri Tenant Rights

According to the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law, landlords must return your security deposit within 30 days of move-out, minus any lawful deductions for unpaid rent or property damage beyond normal use. You are entitled to an itemized list of deductions if any are made.^[1]

Key Protections:

• Landlords may not deduct for "normal wear and tear"
• You have the right to request an explanation for any deductions
• There is no legal requirement for your landlord to offer a move-out inspection, but you may request one in writing

Essential Move-Out & Final Walk-Through Checklist

Use this checklist to make sure you cover all important steps during your walk-through:

• Schedule a walk-through with your landlord before your lease ends
• Bring your move-in inspection form (if you completed one)
• Take clear, time-stamped photos of every room, appliance, and detail
• Test all lights, outlets, appliances, heating/cooling, and plumbing fixtures
• Check for damage to walls, floors, doors, and windows
• Ensure all keys and garage openers are gathered to return
• Collect receipts for any cleaning or repairs you handled
• Ask your landlord for an itemized list of any damages they plan to deduct

Important Missouri Forms for Move-Out

Move-In/Move-Out Checklist

Missouri does not provide an official checklist form, but many local legal aid offices and property managers use a Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form. This document records the property condition at the start and end of the lease.

• When to use: Fill out at move-in and again at move-out, ideally with your landlord present each time
• Purpose: To resolve disputes about property damages and protect your security deposit
• Sample Checklist from Missouri Attorney General

Security Deposit Return Request

• Form Name: Security Deposit Demand Letter (no official number)
• When & How: If your landlord does not return your deposit or provide an itemized deduction list within 30 days, send a demand letter in writing.
• Sample Security Deposit Demand Letter (see Attorney General guide)

How to File a Complaint or Take Action

If your security deposit is unfairly withheld or you have unresolved issues after move-out, you can:

• Contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Office
• File a claim in your county’s Small Claims Court

Most disputes about deposits in Missouri are handled in Small Claims Court, not a rental tribunal.

FAQ: Final Walk-Throughs for Missouri Renters

1. Do landlords have to do a final walk-through with tenants in Missouri?
   No, Missouri law does not require a landlord to perform a final walk-through, but you can request one for your records.
2. What counts as "normal wear and tear"?
   Minor damage from everyday use (like carpet wear or small nail holes) generally qualifies, while stains, pet damage, or broken fixtures are considered beyond normal wear and tear.
3. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   They must return your deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of lease termination.
4. What should I do if my landlord withholds my deposit unfairly?
   Send a written demand letter and, if needed, file a small claims court action with supporting photos and inspection forms.
5. Is there a tribunal that handles tenant-landlord disputes in Missouri?
   No, Missouri does not have a special residential tenancies tribunal. Disputes are generally handled in Small Claims Court. The Missouri Courts system provides guidance on the process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Missouri

• Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law (leasing rights, complaint forms, sample letters)
• Missouri Courts – Small Claims (instructions for filing disputes over deposits)
• Missouri Housing Resources (renter and legal assistance)

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes § 535.300 – Security Deposits
2. Missouri Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Law Guidance
3. Missouri Courts – Small Claims

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