Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law at a Glance
Missouri is one of the few states where a landlord can file a rent-and-possession case the day after rent is late, with no advance notice required (RSMo § 535.020). Deposits are capped at two months’ rent and must be returned within 30 days.
How Long Does a Landlord Have to Return a Security Deposit in Missouri?
A Missouri landlord has 30 days after the tenancy ends to return the deposit with an itemized list of damages.
| Maximum Deposit | Two months’ rent |
| Return Deadline | 30 days |
| Interest Required | No |
| Itemized Statement | Required |
| Statute Reference | RSMo § 535.300 |
How Much Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Missouri?
Missouri bars local rent control and sets no cap on increases; a month-to-month tenancy changes with one month’s notice.
| Late Fee Limit | No statutory cap |
| Rent Control Status | Prohibited (RSMo § 441.043) |
| Rent Increase Notice | One month for month-to-month |
| Statute Reference | RSMo §§ 441.043, 441.060 |
How to Evict a Tenant in Missouri
In Missouri a landlord can file a rent-and-possession suit as soon as rent is unpaid, without first serving a notice.
| Non-Payment Notice | None required before filing |
| Month-to-Month Notice | One month |
| Statute Reference | RSMo §§ 535.020, 441.060 |
Can a Landlord Enter Without Permission in Missouri?
Missouri has no entry statute; the lease controls.
| Notice Required | No statutory period; follow the lease |
| Emergency Entry | Allowed |
What Must a Missouri Lease Disclose?
- Lead-based paint disclosure (pre-1978 housing)
What Repairs Is a Landlord Responsible For in Missouri?
Missouri courts recognize a warranty of habitability, and a tenant may repair a code violation and deduct up to $300 or half a month’s rent.
What Missouri landlords must maintain
- • Keep the unit habitable under the implied warranty of habitability
- • Comply with local housing codes
What a Missouri tenant can do
- • Repair and deduct after 14 days’ written notice (limit below)
- • Sue for damages for breach of the warranty
| Repair & Deduct | Up to $300 or half a month’s rent, whichever is greater |
| Statute Reference | RSMo § 441.234 |