Overview
Missouri’s security deposit regulations are outlined in the Missouri Revised Statutes § 535.300. These laws set clear limits on how much landlords can charge, how deposits must be handled, and how quickly they must be returned after a tenancy ends.
The rules aim to ensure tenants are treated fairly while giving landlords the means to recover costs from property damage or unpaid rent.
This guide covers:
How much landlords can charge
Deposit storage and inspection requirements
Rules for deductions and returns
Penalties for non-compliance
Related Statute: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300
1. Security Deposit Limits & Storage Requirements
Maximum deposit: Landlords may charge up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.
Storage requirements: While Missouri law does not require a separate or interest-bearing account, the deposit must be held by the landlord until returned or lawfully applied.
Law Reference: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.1
2. Security Deposit Returns & Allowable Deductions
Return deadline: Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates the premises.
Permissible deductions: Deductions may be made for unpaid rent, damages beyond ordinary wear and tear, and other breaches of the lease.
Itemized statement required: A written itemized list of deductions must be provided to the tenant within the 30-day return window.
Law Reference: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.2
3. Interest Payments & Documentation Requirements
Interest payments: Missouri does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
Move-out inspection: Landlords must perform a move-out inspection and give tenants the opportunity to be present. Tenants must be notified in writing of the inspection time.
Documentation: A detailed list of damages must be provided if any portion of the deposit is withheld.
Law Reference: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.3
4. Penalties for Mishandling Security Deposits
Tenant remedies: If a landlord fails to return the deposit or withholds it unlawfully, the tenant may recover the full deposit amount plus court costs.
Bad faith penalties: If the landlord is found to have acted in bad faith, the court may award up to twice the amount wrongfully withheld.
Law Reference: Mo. Rev. Stat. § 535.300.5
Key Takeaways
Landlords in Missouri may charge up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.
Deposits must be returned within 30 days with a written itemization of deductions.
Tenants have the right to be present at the move-out inspection.
Improper withholding of a deposit can result in the tenant recovering double damages.
By following Missouri’s deposit laws, landlords can reduce legal risk, and tenants can ensure their rights are protected during move-out.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should not act or refrain from acting based on any information included in this post without seeking legal counsel or other professional guidance specific to their situation. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the content. Laws and regulations may change and vary by jurisdiction.
