Missouri Landlord-Tenant Laws
This overview summarizes common Missouri landlord-tenant topics using published statute references (Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441). Laws change — confirm details with official sources.
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Security Deposit Laws
2 months' rent
30 days
No statutory requirement
The rule: Max 2 months' rent (a deposit labeled as a pet deposit does not count). Within 30 days after the tenancy ends the landlord must return the full deposit or mail an itemized list of damages with the balance, and must give the tenant reasonable notice of the move-out inspection. Wrongful withholding costs twice the amount withheld (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300).
Landlords should provide an itemized deduction list when withholding any portion of the deposit.
Reviewed · Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300
Eviction Notice Requirements
Immediately
10 days notice
Court filing and service rules vary by county. Use our eviction timeline calculator for planning.
Notice to Vacate
30 days notice
No notice required if lease ends
Late Rent Fees
No statutory requirement
No limit
Additional Regulations
No statewide rent control
No statutory requirement
When to use Missouri document templates
Use LeaseCraft templates when you need PDF and editable DOCX lease and notice forms built for Missouri landlords and tenants. Start with the residential lease generator, then add notices from the sidebar.
Common mistakes in Missouri
- Relying on verbal agreements instead of a written lease with required disclosures
- Missing the security deposit return deadline (30 days)
- Serving eviction or termination notices with incorrect day counts
Frequently asked questions
In Missouri the security deposit limit is 2 months' rent. The return deadline is 30 days. Max 2 months' rent (a deposit labeled as a pet deposit does not count). Within 30 days after the tenancy ends the landlord must return the full deposit or mail an itemized list of damages with the balance, and must give the tenant reasonable notice of the move-out inspection. Wrongful withholding costs twice the amount withheld (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300).
Confirm current rules in Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441.
Disclaimer: Educational summary only, not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in your state for specific guidance. LeaseCraft is not a law firm. Statutes change — verify requirements with official Missouri sources before relying on this information. Last reviewed: 2026-09-27.