Missouri Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that results from normal use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300(5).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must return deposit within 30 days
- Double damages available for wrongful withholding
What Your Missouri Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Missouri's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Missouri law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that results from normal use of the premises...
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Missouri Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Missouri?
Under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Missouri landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Missouri, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Missouri?
In Missouri: Deterioration that results from normal use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Missouri landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to up to double the amount wrongfully withheld under Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300(5). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Missouri?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Missouri-specific dispute letter citing Mo. Rev. Stat. §535.300 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.