Missouri Move-Out Cleaning Requirements for Renters

Moving out of a rental in Missouri? Making sure you meet the cleaning standards is essential for getting your security deposit back. Understanding the legal expectations and your rights can help avoid disputes with your landlord and ensure a smoother transition to your next home.

What Are Move-Out Cleaning Standards in Missouri?

Missouri law does not outline strict cleaning rules for tenants when moving out. However, state regulations require renters to return the property in the same condition as when they moved in, allowing for normal wear and tear. Landlords may deduct certain cleaning or repair costs from your security deposit, but only if the unit was not properly maintained according to your lease (Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 535.300).¹

Normal Wear and Tear vs. Excessive Damage

• Normal wear and tear: Minor marks on walls, faded paint, or worn carpets from regular use
• Excessive damage: Broken fixtures, unapproved paint colors, large stains, or holes in walls

If you leave the unit with more than normal wear and tear, the landlord can withhold some or all of your security deposit after providing an itemized list of damages and cleaning costs.

Typical Cleaning Expectations (What Landlords Check)

Many landlords use a checklist for move-out inspections. While requirements may vary, typical expectations include:

• Remove all personal items and trash
• Wipe down kitchen surfaces, cabinets, and appliances
• Clean bathrooms, including sinks, toilets, tubs, and mirrors
• Vacuum and sweep all floors
• Clean windows, ledges, and blinds (where accessible)
• Patch small holes caused by picture hangers
• Replace burned-out light bulbs

Security Deposit Laws and Move-Out Inspections

According to the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law, your landlord must notify you of any deductions to your security deposit within 30 days after you move out, along with an itemized list of damages or cleaning charges.¹

If You Disagree with Deductions

• Review the move-in inspection record for pre-existing issues
• Gather photo evidence of the property's condition at move-out
• Communicate your concerns in writing to your landlord
• Consider filing a claim if you believe deductions are unfair

Official Forms in Missouri

• Security Deposit Itemization: There is no state-standardized form, but landlords are required to supply a written statement of deductions. This itemized list is typically provided by the landlord and does not require a specific form from the state. If you do not receive it, you may request it in writing.
• Small Claims Petition (CCAA001-WS): Use this form if you need to recover a security deposit you believe was unfairly withheld. Renters can directly file in Missouri Small Claims Court.
  Example: After you move out and wait 30 days without receiving your security deposit or an itemized list of deductions, you can submit this form to the local court. Download Small Claims Petition Form (CCAA001-WS)

Name of the Tribunal Handling Tenant Disputes

For disputes about cleaning charges, security deposit returns, or other move-out issues, renters in Missouri can use the Missouri Small Claims Court system. There is no specialized tenancy tribunal, but the small claims court is the usual forum for tenant-landlord disputes.

FAQ: Missouri Move-Out Cleaning Standards

1. Does Missouri law require a professional cleaning before moving out?
   No, Missouri law does not require professional cleaning, but you must return the rental in reasonably clean condition, accounting for normal wear and tear.
2. Can my landlord keep my security deposit for minor cleaning issues?
   Landlords can make deductions only for excessive cleaning required to address issues beyond normal wear and tear. An itemized statement is mandatory.
3. What should I do if I disagree with the landlord's cleaning charges?
   First, communicate your objections in writing and provide supportive evidence. If unresolved, consider filing a claim in Small Claims Court.
4. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   Your landlord must return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of move-out.
5. Is there an official move-out inspection checklist for Missouri?
   No state-mandated checklist exists, but many landlords use their own. Always request it in advance if you are unsure.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri does not set strict cleaning laws, but you must leave the rental clean and in good repair (minus normal wear and tear).
• Carefully document your unit’s condition when moving in and out to protect your security deposit.
• If you disagree with cleaning deductions, you have the right to dispute them in Small Claims Court.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth move-out experience and support the return of your security deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
• Missouri Courts - Small Claims Information
• Missouri Housing Development Commission - Renter Assistance

---

1. Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 535.300 - Security deposits, return of, when—damages, forfeit—itemized list required

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations