Missouri Tenant Rights
Missouri has minimal tenant protections. Kansas City and St. Louis may have local ordinances that provide additional rights.
Security Deposit
- Maximum allowed
- 2 months' rent
- Return deadline
- 30 days
- Itemized deductions required
- Yes
Landlord Entry
- Notice required
- No statutory requirement
- Emergency exception
- Yes — landlord may enter without notice in genuine emergencies
Notice to Vacate
- Month-to-month
- 30 days
- Fixed-term lease
- No notice required — ends automatically
Rent Control
- Statewide rent control
- No
- Local ordinances allowed
- No
- Details
- No rent control in Missouri.
Late Fees & Grace Period
- Grace period
- No statutory grace period
- Late fee limit
- No statutory limit — must be reasonable
Early Lease Termination
Limited protections. Military deployment (SCRA). Uninhabitable conditions allow remedies under warranty of habitability.
Key Statutes & Laws
- Missouri Revised Statutes Ch. 441, 535
Frequently Asked Questions — Missouri Tenant Rights
What is the security deposit limit in Missouri?
In Missouri, the security deposit limit is 2 months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days.
How much notice must a Missouri landlord give before entering?
Missouri requires No statutory requirement before landlord entry. Emergencies are exempt from notice requirements.
Does Missouri have rent control?
No rent control in Missouri.
Can I break my lease early in Missouri?
Limited protections. Military deployment (SCRA). Uninhabitable conditions allow remedies under warranty of habitability.
What is the late fee grace period in Missouri?
No statutory grace period. Late fee limit: No statutory limit — must be reasonable.
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This guide provides general information about Missouri tenant rights and is not legal advice. Laws change — always verify current statutes with your local tenant rights organization or a licensed attorney. Last updated March 2026.