A Missouri standard lease agreement is a written document that outlines the terms and conditions of a rental arrangement between a landlord and tenant. Before signing the lease, both parties typically inspect the rental unit and negotiate details such as rent amount, length of lease, utilities, and termination options.
Once signed, the lease becomes a legally binding contract. The agreement usually lasts for a fixed term of one year and requires a rental application, credit check, and fee before approval.
Considerations on Lease Length
- Leases can be of any length of time, provided that the lease term is clearly specified and mutually agreed upon in writing by both the landlord and the tenant.
- Oral leases are usually limited to terms of no more than one year.
- All tenancies that are not in writing and signed by parties shall be considered month-to-month. (§ 441.060)
Security Deposit
- Maximum Amount ($): Two months’ rent (§ 535.300(1))
- Returning to Tenant: Within 30 days (§ 535.300(3))
Rent Grace Period
There is no rent grace period for rent payments.
Landlord Resources
- Landlord-Tenant Laws – Chapter 441 (Landlord and Tenant)
- Handbook – Rights and Responsibilities of Landlords & Tenants (PDF)
