In Missouri, rent increase laws in 2025 remain largely landlord-friendly, as the state does not impose rent control or caps on how much landlords can raise rents. However, there are specific legal requirements and protections that tenants should be aware of to navigate potential rent hikes effectively.
Key Aspects of Missouri Rent Increase Laws
- No Statewide Rent Control
Missouri does not have any statewide rent control laws, meaning landlords can raise rent by any amount they choose. This flexibility allows landlords to adjust rents based on market conditions, property values, or economic factors like inflation. - Notice Requirements
- For month-to-month leases, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing the rent.
- For fixed-term leases, rent increases are only allowed at the end of the lease term unless explicitly stated in the lease agreement.
Proper notice is crucial; without it, tenants are not obligated to pay the increased amount until the notice period is fulfilled.
- Timing of Rent Increases
Rent increases cannot occur during an active fixed-term lease unless a clause in the lease permits it or the tenant agrees in writing. Typically, increases are implemented at lease renewal or for month-to-month arrangements after sufficient notice. - Prohibited Practices
- Retaliatory Increases: Landlords cannot raise rent as retaliation against tenants for filing complaints or exercising their legal rights, such as reporting unsafe living conditions.
- Discriminatory Increases: Rent hikes cannot be based on discriminatory reasons under the federal Fair Housing Act and Missouri Human Rights Act, which protect tenants from bias based on race, religion, sex, disability, and other factors.
- Local Ordinances
While Missouri lacks statewide rent control, some cities may have local regulations addressing rent increases. For example, Columbia passed a rent stabilization ordinance in 2021 tying allowable increases to inflation. Tenants should research local laws for additional protections.
Tenant Protections and Rights
Missouri law ensures that tenants have specific rights when facing a rent increase:
- Tenants must receive clear written notice of any proposed increase.
- Landlords must adhere to fair housing laws and avoid discriminatory practices.
- Tenants can challenge unreasonable or retaliatory increases through legal channels.
Tips for Tenants
- Review Your Lease: Understand whether your lease includes provisions allowing mid-term rent adjustments.
- Document Communication: Keep records of all notices and communication with your landlord regarding rent changes.
- Research Market Rates: Compare your new rent with similar properties in your area to determine if the increase is reasonable.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you suspect a rent increase violates your rights (e.g., retaliation or discrimination), consult a tenant advocacy group or attorney.
In 2025, Missouri remains a landlord-friendly state with no restrictions on how much rents can be increased. However, landlords must follow proper notice requirements and avoid discriminatory or retaliatory practices. Tenants should stay informed about their rights and local ordinances to ensure they are treated fairly during rent adjustments.
Sources
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/missouri-rent-control-laws/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-missouri
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-missouri
- https://ark7.com/blog/learn/cities/complete-house-renting-guide-for-missouri/
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/missouri-tenant-landlord-law/