Free Missouri Residential Lease/Rental Agreement

All states are required by Federal law to include certain elements in their Lease/Rental Agreements. Keep in mind that all comprehensive agreements should address the following:

1. The identities and contact information of both landlord and tenant,
2. The address of the premises,
3. Pet prohibitions and allowances,
4. Information and disclosures concerning health and safety hazards,
5. Rent specifics, such as rent amount and the date which it is to be paid

However, not all states will have identical leasing and rental requirements and may differ on some important issues. It is recommended you acquaint yourself with Missouri’s leasing and rental requirements in order to create a thorough lease agreement that protects both your financial and legal rights.

Table of Contents

• Missouri Residential Lease Agreement Sample
• Missouri Landlord and Tenant Laws

1. Missouri Residential Lease Agreement Sample

The sample lease agreement below describes a contract between “Landlord” Randy Hayworth and “Tenant” Dan Grinner. He agrees to rent a townhouse in St. Louis for $1,200 per month on a month-by-month basis. The tenant agrees to pay for all utilities and services for the Premises.

This is a good example of what provisions a simple lease agreement might contain, and how one should look in its final form.

2. Missouri Landlord and Tenant Laws

Missouri imposes specific and distinct requirements for landlords and tenants when executing a Lease/Rental Agreement. For example, Missouri statute provides for the following:

Security Deposit:

1. A landlord may not request more than two months’ rent as a security deposit from the tenant. (§§ 535.300(1))
2. A landlord must return the security deposit within thirty (30) days from the end of the lease. (§§ 535.300(2))

Landlord Right of Entry:

1. A landlord is not required to give notice to the tenant before entering the premises. (No statute)

Additionally, Missouri law requires:

Tenant’s Duties:

1. A tenant is required by Missouri law to dispose of garbage in a sanitary and clean manner. (Missouri’s Landlord-Tenant Law: The Rights & Responsibilities of Landlords & Tenants)
2. A tenant must refrain from unreasonable use of all electrical, heating and plumbing fixtures. (Missouri’s Landlord-Tenant Law: The Rights & Responsibilities of Landlords & Tenants)

Further Contact Details:

1. A landlord is required to provide the tenant with the contact details of the property manager and person elected to receive notices and demands on behalf of them. (§§ 535.185)