What are tenant rights in Missouri?

Missouri tenant rights are governed by RSMo Chapter 441 and common law (no comprehensive URLTA adoption).

1. Security Deposit — Capped at 2 months' rent under RSMo § 535.300. Landlord must return within 30 days with itemized list of damages. Wrongful retention exposes landlord to 2x damages.

2. Habitability — Common law implied warranty recognized in King v. Moorehead, 495 S.W.2d 65 (Mo. App. 1973). RSMo § 441.234 codifies certain habitability obligations (operable smoke detectors, lead disclosures). Local codes (Kansas City Property Maintenance Code, St. Louis) impose more detail.

3. Tenant Remedies — Tenants may use repair-and-deduct (capped at $300 or half of monthly rent under RSMo § 441.234), withhold rent in escrow, or sue for damages. Limited remedies compared to URLTA states.

4. Notice for Entry — No statutory requirement; lease controls.

5. Eviction Notice — RSMo § 535.060 allows immediate filing for rent and possession upon nonpayment (no statutory grace period). Other lease violations require 10 days' notice.

6. Termination of Month-to-Month — RSMo § 441.060 requires 1 month's notice by either party for monthly tenancies.

7. Rent Control — Prohibited statewide by RSMo § 441.043.

8. Discrimination — Missouri Human Rights Act (RSMo § 213.040) prohibits discrimination on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, and familial status. No statewide sexual orientation or source-of-income protection.

9. Retaliation — Missouri has no general retaliation statute, though courts have recognized common-law defenses in narrow cases.

10. Lockouts — RSMo § 441.233 prohibits landlord self-help; treble damages.

This is legal information, not legal advice.