Missouri Tenants: Cure or Quit Notices & Your Rights

If you're a renter in Missouri and have received a Cure or Quit Notice, it's important to understand your rights and next steps. This type of notice is commonly used by landlords when a tenant has allegedly violated part of the lease agreement—such as not paying rent on time or breaking a rule. Missouri law provides specific guidelines that landlords and tenants must follow in these situations.

What Is a Cure or Quit Notice?

A Cure or Quit Notice is a formal warning from your landlord stating that you have a set period (usually 10 days) to correct—or "cure"—a violation of your lease. If you do not correct the violation (for example, by paying overdue rent or stopping a prohibited activity), your landlord may seek to end your tenancy.

When Can Landlords Give a Cure or Quit Notice in Missouri?

Missouri law allows landlords to issue this notice in specific circumstances, such as:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Violation of lease terms, such as having unauthorized pets or subletting
• Creating a nuisance or causing property damage

For most lease violations (not involving illegal activities or property damage), the landlord must give you a 10-day written notice to correct the issue before starting eviction proceedings.

How the Cure or Quit Process Works in Missouri

Here's an overview of what happens when a landlord believes a tenant has broken the lease:

• Your landlord serves you with an official 10-Day Notice to Quit (also referred to as a Cure or Quit Notice)
• You have 10 days to fix the problem (such as paying overdue rent or removing an unauthorized pet)
• If you resolve the issue during that period, your tenancy continues as normal
• If not, the landlord may file an eviction lawsuit in court

For nonpayment of rent or most lease violations, Missouri landlords must follow these notice requirements under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.040.¹

Official Notice Forms Used in Missouri

• 10-Day Notice to Quit
  When used: When a tenant violates the lease (other than nonpayment of rent).
  How it's used: The landlord completes and serves this notice, providing 10 days to correct the violation or move out. For example, if you have an unauthorized pet in your unit, you may receive this form asking you to remove the pet within 10 days.
  Official 10-Day Notice to Quit Form (Missouri Courts)

There is no state-mandated numbering system for Missouri eviction forms, but always use the version provided by the Missouri Courts site or ask the court for the official template.

What Happens If You Do Not Respond?

If you do not cure the violation or move out at the end of the 10 days, the landlord may file an eviction case in court. The case will be heard by the Associate Circuit Court for your county. You will receive a court summons and have an opportunity to present your side.

Key Missouri Legislation Protecting Tenants

• Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.040 – Lease Violations and Notice
• Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535 – Landlord and Tenant: Actions for Possession

Review these statutes for full details about the eviction process and your protections as a renter.

Steps to Take If You Receive a Cure or Quit Notice

Taking action promptly can protect your housing and your rights. Here are the steps:

• Read the notice carefully to understand the alleged violation and the deadline
• Correct the issue within the specified time (for example, pay overdue rent or remove an unauthorized occupant)
• Communicate with your landlord in writing when the issue is resolved
• If you believe the notice is mistaken or your rights were violated, reach out to your local legal aid office or the Missouri Courts for assistance

By responding within the 10-day period, you may be able to avoid an eviction case entirely.

FAQ: Missouri Cure or Quit Notices

1. What should I do if I receive a 10-Day Cure or Quit Notice?
   Immediately review the notice, identify the violation, and address it before the 10-day deadline. Inform your landlord in writing when you have resolved the issue.
2. Can my landlord evict me without giving a Cure or Quit Notice in Missouri?
   No, for most lease violations (not involving illegal activity or dangerous conduct), your landlord must provide a 10-day written notice before they can file for eviction.
3. Where can I find official eviction or notice forms for Missouri?
   You can access official forms through the Missouri Courts eviction forms page.
4. Who handles eviction cases in Missouri?
   Eviction cases are processed in the Associate Circuit Court of your local county.
5. What are my rights if I fix the lease violation on time?
   If you cure the violation within 10 days, your landlord cannot proceed with eviction for that violation and your tenancy continues under the same terms.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Cure or Quit Notices give you 10 days to fix certain lease violations.
• Official forms and further information are available from Missouri Courts.
• Always communicate in writing and act quickly to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Courts – Find Your Local Circuit Court
• Missouri Human Rights Commission – Housing discrimination or rights info
• Legal Services of Missouri – Free legal help for low-income renters
• Missouri Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Law

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes Section 441.040
2. Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 535
3. Missouri Courts – 10-Day Notice to Quit Form
4. Missouri Courts – Associate Circuit Court Locator

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