What is the security deposit limit in Missouri?

Missouri caps security deposits at 2 months rent for residential leases.

What notice is required for landlord entry in Missouri?

Missouri has no statutory entry notice requirement. Negotiate at least 24-hour notice into your lease.

Does Missouri have rent control?

No. Missouri has no rent control laws at state or local level.

How long does a Missouri landlord have to return a security deposit?

30 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions.

What are the main commercial lease risks in Kansas City and St. Louis?

Both markets feature NNN and modified gross leases with varying CAM provisions. Kansas City commercial leases can be subject to Missouri or Kansas law depending on location. Always confirm the governing state before negotiating.

Missouri Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit Varies

Return Deadline 30 days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

Missouri leases without explicit deposit return timelines — state law is not precise on this. Kansas City tenants signing leases on the Missouri side who expect Kansas protections (or vice versa). St. Louis commercial leases in older buildings where deferred maintenance creates significant repair obligations.

Rent Control

Rent Control: No statewide rent control

Habitability & Repair Requirements

Missouri landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition. Missouri is landlord-favorable statewide with minimal statutory tenant protections. Kansas City and St. Louis have local ordinances that provide some additional rights. The state line dynamic in Kansas City requires tenants to know which jurisdiction they're in.

Eviction Process

St. Louis has seen significant commercial office vacancy downtown post-pandemic, with some buildings converting. The Clayton commercial submarket is more stable. Kansas City has had strong commercial absorption in the Crossroads and Power & Light districts. Columbia's market is driven by University of Missouri.

Tenant Protections & Notable Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in Missouri?: Missouri caps security deposits at 2 months rent for residential leases.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Missouri?: Missouri has no statutory entry notice requirement. Negotiate at least 24-hour notice into your lease.
Does Missouri have rent control?: No. Missouri has no rent control laws at state or local level.
How long does a Missouri landlord have to return a security deposit?: 30 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions.
What are the main commercial lease risks in Kansas City and St. Louis?: Both markets feature NNN and modified gross leases with varying CAM provisions. Kansas City commercial leases can be subject to Missouri or Kansas law depending on location. Always confirm the governing state before negotiating.

Cities in Missouri

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in Missouri: