Missouri Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.010 — Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law — Rent and Possession
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: Immediate Filing (No Notice Required)
- Lease violation: Immediate Filing (No Mandatory Notice for Lease Violation)
- Unconditional: 10-Day Notice to Vacate
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Month-to-Month)
Available Defenses
- Habitability (Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.234)
- Retaliation (Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.233)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
NO — Missouri does not require a mandatory cure period for nonpayment — landlord can file immediately
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.233)
Court & Filing
Circuit Court (Associate Division)
Landlord may file rent and possession action without prior notice for nonpayment
Complaints: Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection Section
Additional Protections
- Missouri allows immediate filing for nonpayment — no notice period required
- Kansas City and St. Louis may have additional local protections
- Self-help eviction prohibited
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Missouri Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Missouri?
In Missouri, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: Immediate Filing (No Notice Required); Lease violation: Immediate Filing (No Mandatory Notice for Lease Violation); Unconditional: 10-Day Notice to Vacate; End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Month-to-Month). Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Missouri?
Available defenses in Missouri include: Habitability (Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.234), Retaliation (Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.233), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Missouri require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
No. Missouri does not require a mandatory cure period for nonpayment — landlord can file immediately
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Missouri?
No. Under Mo. Rev. Stat. §441.233, self-help eviction is prohibited in Missouri. Your landlord must file in Circuit Court (Associate Division) and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Missouri?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.010, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Missouri?
File complaints with the Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection Section and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.