When Missouri Landlords Can Raise Rent: Pass-Through Costs Explained

Renters in Missouri may have questions about what expenses landlords can legally add to their rent, especially when it comes to 'pass-through costs'—charges that landlords incur and then pass on to tenants. This article will help you understand how rent increases work in Missouri, what pass-through costs are, your rights under current law, and practical steps you can take if you receive a rent increase notice.

Understanding Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs in Missouri

Missouri does not have state-wide rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means that, in most cases, landlords can raise rent as they see fit if they follow certain rules. However, some costs—such as property taxes or utility upgrades—can sometimes be passed on to tenants as 'pass-through' increases.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs refer to additional expenses a landlord might pay, like improvements, repairs, or tax increases, that they may attempt to recover by raising a tenant's rent. In Missouri, the rules about passing through these costs are typically set out in your lease agreement.

• If your lease specifically allows certain expenses to be passed along, your landlord can include them in your rent, after proper notice.
• If the lease is silent, these costs may not be imposed unless you agree in writing.
• Landlords cannot use pass-throughs to justify increases during a fixed-term lease unless your contract allows for it.

There are currently no municipal rent boards in Missouri regulating rent increases or pass-throughs.

Legal Notice Required for Rent Increases

Missouri law requires landlords to provide written notice before raising your rent if you have a month-to-month tenancy. Generally, this is at least one full rental period (usually 30 days), unless your lease specifies a different amount of time. For fixed-term leases, landlords can only raise rent at the end of the lease or as provided in the lease itself.

• Written notice should clearly state the new rent amount and when it takes effect.
• If you pay rent weekly, only seven days' notice is required.
• Notice should be delivered in person or by mail. If you receive notice and disagree, you can choose not to renew when your term ends, or you may negotiate with your landlord.

Your Rights If You Receive a Pass-Through Rent Increase

Tenants have rights when facing a rent increase. Here’s what you should know:

• Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for making complaints or exercising legal rights under the Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law.
• Any increase must follow lease terms or state-required notice periods (see official notice rules).
• Rent increases based on illegal discrimination (like race, gender, or disability) are prohibited under the Missouri Human Rights Act and the federal Fair Housing Act.

Relevant Forms for Missouri Renters

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form): Used when a renter chooses to end their lease after a rent increase notice. This form is available from the Missouri Courts. Example: You’ve received a 30-day rent increase notice and want to move out; you can use this form to provide written notice to your landlord.
• Missouri Discrimination Complaint Form: Used if you believe a rent increase violates your civil rights. File online with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.

Handling Rent Increases or Disputes

If you disagree with an increase, especially one labeled as a pass-through, you may want to:

• Request a written explanation and documentation of costs from your landlord
• Check your lease for allowable charges and requirements
• Seek mediation or advisory services if negotiations stall

Disputes over rent increases can ultimately be handled by the local county court system, since Missouri does not have a dedicated landlord-tenant tribunal. The courts operate in accordance with the Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441 (Landlord-Tenant Law) and Chapter 535 (Landlord Actions for Possession).

FAQ: Rent Increases and Pass-Through Costs for Missouri Renters

1. Can my landlord raise rent at any time in Missouri?
   Landlords may only raise rent at the end of your lease term or with proper notice for month-to-month tenants, unless your lease says otherwise.
2. Does Missouri limit how much rent can increase?
   No state law sets a maximum limit on rent increases, so landlords may raise rent as they choose if they follow required notice rules.
3. What if I think a pass-through cost is unfair?
   Ask for documentation and review your lease. If you still believe it is unfair, consider contacting legal aid or your local court for help.
4. Are there official government boards that regulate rent increases?
   No, Missouri does not have a rent board or tribunal regulating rent increases. Issues may be taken to the county civil court if unresolved.

Conclusion: Know Your Missouri Rental Rights

• Rent increases, including pass-through costs, must follow your lease and state notice laws.
• There are currently no rent control caps or regulatory tribunals in Missouri, so documentation and knowing your lease are key.
• Seek help promptly if you believe a rent increase is unlawful or retaliatory.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Missouri

• Missouri Circuit Courts Directory — For filing disputes or responding to landlord actions
• Missouri Commission on Human Rights — For discrimination complaints
• Legal Services of Missouri — Free or low-cost legal support for renters
• Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Protection — For tenant complaints and resources

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441: Landlord and Tenant
2. Missouri Notice Requirements (§441.060)
3. Legal Services of Missouri: Rent Increases
4. Notice to Terminate Tenancy Form
5. Discrimination Complaint Form — Missouri Commission on Human Rights

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