Use this landlord repairs / habitability guide to build a clear demand letter for St. Louis.
Understanding Landlord Repair and Habitability Rights in St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis renters occupy housing ranging from historic brick row houses in Soulard and Lafayette Square to modern apartment complexes in the Central West End and Clayton, from affordable housing in North City to renovated lofts in downtown's Washington Avenue district. Regardless of where you rent in the St. Louis metropolitan area, Missouri law provides important protections requiring landlords to maintain rental properties in habitable condition. When landlords fail to make necessary repairs, tenants have legal rights and remedies to compel compliance.
Missouri's landlord-tenant law is primarily governed by Chapter 441 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, which establishes the fundamental rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. Unlike some states with comprehensive habitability statutes, Missouri relies heavily on common law principles and municipal housing codes to define landlord repair obligations. St. Louis City has its own building and housing code that establishes minimum standards for residential properties, providing additional protections for city residents.
St. Louis tenants commonly face habitability issues including heating and cooling system failures, plumbing problems, water damage and leaks, pest infestations, electrical hazards, and structural defects. The city's aging housing stock, with many buildings constructed in the early 20th century, means that maintenance issues are particularly prevalent. Understanding your rights as a tenant is essential for ensuring your landlord fulfills their legal obligations.
A well-crafted demand letter serves as your most effective first step when landlords ignore repair requests. It creates a documented record of the problem and your attempts to resolve it, demonstrates your knowledge of Missouri landlord-tenant law, and often motivates landlords to act quickly to avoid legal liability. Many St. Louis landlords will respond positively to a professional demand letter that clearly articulates their legal obligations and the consequences of non-compliance.
This comprehensive guide will explain Missouri's landlord repair obligations under state law and St. Louis housing codes, provide detailed guidance on documenting habitability problems, walk you through creating an effective demand letter, identify critical deadlines and procedures, and highlight common mistakes that undermine tenant claims. Whether you're dealing with a negligent individual landlord or a large property management company, this guide will help you understand and assert your rights.
St. Louis tenants should also be aware that the Missouri Attorney General's office and the St. Louis City Building Division can be valuable allies in addressing serious habitability violations. Additionally, organizations like Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council (EHOC) and Legal Services of Eastern Missouri provide assistance to tenants facing housing problems.
Missouri Landlord-Tenant Law and St. Louis Housing Codes
Missouri's landlord-tenant relationships are governed primarily by Chapter 441 of the Missouri Revised Statutes and common law principles developed through court decisions. Unlike many states that have adopted the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), Missouri has not enacted comprehensive habitability legislation. However, Missouri courts have recognized an implied warranty of habitability in residential leases, and local housing codes establish enforceable minimum standards.
Under Missouri common law, landlords have an implied duty to maintain rental premises in a habitable condition. Missouri courts, following the landmark case of Detling v. Edelbrock, have recognized that residential tenants are entitled to premises that are safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation. This implied warranty of habitability cannot be waived in the lease, and violations may entitle tenants to remedies including rent abatement and lease termination.
The implied warranty of habitability in Missouri covers essential services and systems that make a dwelling livable. Courts have found violations where landlords failed to maintain adequate heating, allowed persistent water leaks, failed to address pest infestations, ignored electrical hazards, and neglected structural defects affecting safety. The warranty requires that the dwelling be weathertight, have working plumbing and electrical systems, and be free from conditions that pose health or safety hazards.
St. Louis City maintains its own housing code under Chapter 25 of the St. Louis Revised Code. This code establishes minimum standards for residential properties including requirements for heating systems, plumbing, electrical systems, structural integrity, ventilation, pest control, and maintenance of common areas. Violations of the St. Louis housing code can result in citations against landlords and may constitute evidence of habitability violations in legal proceedings.
Under the St. Louis housing code, landlords must provide heating facilities capable of maintaining a minimum temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit in habitable rooms during heating season. Hot water must be available at all times at a minimum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Plumbing fixtures must be maintained in working order, and buildings must be free from rodent and insect infestations. The code also requires landlords to maintain all structural elements, roofing, and exterior surfaces.
Section 441.060 RSMo addresses distress for rent, providing that landlords cannot seize tenant property for unpaid rent except through proper legal process. This protection remains important in landlord-tenant disputes and prevents self-help evictions. Missouri law also prohibits retaliatory actions by landlords against tenants who exercise their legal rights, including making habitability complaints.
For security deposit disputes related to alleged tenant-caused damage versus landlord-neglected repairs, Section 535.300 RSMo governs security deposit handling and requires landlords to return deposits within 30 days of lease termination, with itemized deductions for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Missouri courts provide several remedies for habitability violations. Tenants may be entitled to rent abatement (reduction) for periods when the property was not fully habitable. In severe cases, tenants may terminate the lease and recover damages. Courts may also award damages for property damage, temporary housing costs, and in egregious cases, punitive damages for willful violations.
The St. Louis City Building Division enforces the housing code and can inspect properties upon tenant complaint. Violations can result in citations and fines against landlords. While code enforcement doesn't directly award damages to tenants, official violation notices provide strong evidence in civil proceedings against landlords.
Step-by-Step Guide to Landlord Repair Demand Letters in St. Louis
Before taking any formal action, create comprehensive documentation of the repair issue. Take detailed photographs and videos showing the problem from multiple angles, including wide shots for context and close-ups of specific defects. Document dates when problems first appeared and how they have progressed. For issues like heating failures, record temperature readings with dates and times. For water problems, document the extent of damage and any mold or mildew that has developed. Keep a written log of how the problem affects your daily life and use of the rental property.
Carefully read your lease agreement to understand any repair request procedures specified by your landlord. Many leases require written notice of repair needs within a certain timeframe or through specific channels. While landlords cannot waive habitability obligations through lease terms, following lease procedures for initial repair requests strengthens your legal position. Note any provisions regarding maintenance responsibilities, emergency procedures, and contact information for repair requests.
Send written notice of the repair need to your landlord before proceeding with a formal demand letter. This initial notice should clearly describe the problem, explain how it affects habitability, and request repair within a reasonable time. Send this notice via a method that creates a record, such as email with delivery confirmation or certified mail. Keep copies of all notices sent. Allow the landlord reasonable time to respond, typically 14 days for non-emergency repairs.
Familiarize yourself with the St. Louis City housing code (Chapter 25 of the St. Louis Revised Code) or the housing codes of your particular municipality if you live in St. Louis County. Identify specific code provisions that the landlord may be violating. Understanding the applicable legal standards strengthens your demand letter and demonstrates that you know your rights. The Building Division can provide information about code requirements.
Determine the financial impact of the habitability problem. This may include the value of rent reduction you're entitled to for periods when the property wasn't fully habitable, costs of temporary repairs you made to prevent further damage, expenses for temporary alternative housing if the problem made the unit uninhabitable, costs of damaged personal property, increased utility bills due to heating or cooling system failures, and any medical expenses related to the habitability condition.
Determine the proper legal name and address of your landlord. This may be different from the property manager or the name on your rent checks. Check your lease for the landlord's legal name. Search the St. Louis City Assessor's property records online to identify the property owner. For corporations or LLCs, search the Missouri Secretary of State's database for registered agent information. Send your demand letter to the legal owner, not just the property management company.
Prepare a professional demand letter that includes your name, address of the rental property, and contact information; the landlord's legal name and address; a clear subject line referencing the property address and repair demand; a chronological account of the problem and your previous attempts to get it repaired; specific reference to Missouri's implied warranty of habitability and applicable St. Louis housing code provisions; your specific demands for repairs and any damages; a reasonable deadline for compliance; and consequences if the landlord fails to act.
In your demand letter, explain the legal consequences of continued non-compliance. Reference that Missouri courts recognize the implied warranty of habitability and award damages for violations. Note that you intend to contact the St. Louis Building Division if repairs are not made, which can result in code violation citations and fines. If applicable, reference your right to pursue rent abatement, lease termination, or damages in court.
Provide reasonable deadlines based on the nature of the repair needed. Emergency repairs affecting health and safety, such as no heat in winter, gas leaks, or sewage backups, require immediate attention within 24-48 hours. Significant repairs affecting habitability should be completed within 14 days. More complex repairs requiring contractors or parts may warrant up to 30 days. Make clear what you expect and by when.
Send the demand letter via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested to create proof of delivery. Also send a copy via email if you have your landlord's email address. Keep the green card return receipt, certified mail receipt, and copies of everything you sent. This documentation proves the landlord received your demand and is essential if you need to take legal action.
If your landlord does not respond or refuses to make repairs, file a complaint with the St. Louis City Building Division or the building department of your municipality. Inspectors can investigate, document violations, and issue citations requiring repairs. This official documentation strengthens your legal case and creates pressure on the landlord through the regulatory system.
If repairs are not made after your demand letter and regulatory complaints, consider legal action. Missouri small claims court (Associate Circuit Court) handles matters up to $5,000. You may seek rent abatement for periods of reduced habitability, reimbursement for repair costs you incurred, damages for personal property, and in appropriate cases, lease termination. Consult with a tenant rights attorney for significant claims.
Evidence Checklist for Landlord Repair Claims in St. Louis
Lease Agreement and Related Documents: Your lease agreement establishes the fundamental terms of your tenancy and may contain relevant provisions about maintenance responsibilities, repair procedures, and contact information for the landlord. Keep your original signed lease and any amendments, addenda, or written modifications. Note that while Missouri landlords cannot contractually waive habitability obligations, lease terms may affect other aspects of your dispute.
Photographic and Video Evidence: Visual documentation is crucial for habitability claims. Take photographs and videos that clearly show the repair problem and its extent. For progressive issues like water damage or mold, take periodic photos showing how the problem worsens over time. Include wide-angle shots showing the overall area and close-up shots of specific defects. For heating problems, photograph thermostat readings with dates and times. Use a timestamp feature or include a dated newspaper in photos to establish when they were taken.
Written Communication Records: Maintain complete records of all communications with your landlord about the repair issue. This includes emails, text messages, letters, and notes from phone conversations or in-person discussions. For each phone call, immediately document the date, time, name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of what was discussed. Missouri is a one-party consent state, so you may legally record phone conversations you participate in without notifying the other party.
Repair Request History: Create a detailed timeline showing when you first notified the landlord of the problem and all subsequent follow-up communications. This chronology demonstrates the landlord's ongoing failure to act and establishes notice, which is often a key element in habitability claims. Include dates, methods of communication, and any responses or promises made by the landlord.
Building Inspection Reports: If you file a complaint with the St. Louis City Building Division or other municipal building department, obtain copies of any inspection reports and violation notices issued. These official documents carry significant weight as evidence and establish that recognized authorities found code violations. Request copies of all documentation from the inspector.
Expert Assessments: For significant repair issues, professional assessments from licensed contractors, plumbers, electricians, or pest control companies can establish the nature and extent of the problem. These experts can provide written reports and estimates that document the severity of habitability violations. In some cases, you may need to hire inspectors or specialists to evaluate health hazards like mold.
Temperature and Condition Logs: For ongoing problems, keep a daily log documenting conditions. For heating issues, record indoor temperatures multiple times per day with dates and times. For water problems, note any new leaks or spreading damage. For pest infestations, document sightings and evidence. This contemporaneous log demonstrates the ongoing nature of the problem.
Financial Records: Document all costs incurred because of the habitability problem. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you made, portable heaters or air conditioners purchased, pest control products, alternative housing costs, damaged personal property, and any other expenses directly related to the landlord's failure to maintain the property. These records support your damage claims.
Witness Information: Identify any witnesses who can corroborate your account of the habitability problems, including neighbors who have observed the conditions, visitors who can describe problems they saw, or other tenants experiencing similar issues. Collect their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide written statements or testify if needed.
Medical Records: If the habitability problem caused health issues, such as respiratory problems from mold exposure or injuries from structural defects, obtain medical records documenting the condition and its relationship to the housing problem. Medical evidence can support claims for health-related damages.
Rent Payment Records: Keep records showing you have paid rent as required under the lease. Bank statements, canceled checks, and money order receipts establish that you fulfilled your obligations as a tenant. This is important because landlords may attempt to defend against habitability claims by alleging non-payment of rent.
Important Deadlines for Landlord Repair Claims in Missouri
Initial Notice to Landlord: While Missouri does not specify a statutory notice period for repair requests, providing written notice is essential to establish that the landlord knew about the problem. Send written notice as soon as you discover a habitability issue. For non-emergency repairs, allow the landlord a reasonable time to respond, typically 14 days. For emergencies affecting health and safety, immediate notice and demand for prompt repair is appropriate.
Emergency Repair Response: For conditions that constitute emergencies, such as no heat during winter, gas leaks, sewage backups, or serious electrical hazards, landlords should respond within 24-48 hours. These conditions pose immediate health and safety risks. If your landlord fails to address true emergencies, you may need to take immediate action to protect yourself and then seek reimbursement.
Non-Emergency Repair Timeline: For habitability issues that don't constitute immediate emergencies but still affect your use and enjoyment of the property, 14 to 30 days is typically considered reasonable time for the landlord to make repairs. The specific timeframe depends on the nature of the repair, whether contractors or parts are needed, and the severity of the impact on habitability.
Demand Letter Response Period: After sending a formal demand letter, allow 14 to 30 days for the landlord to respond and take action. Specify your deadline clearly in the letter. If the landlord does not respond or refuses to make repairs by the deadline, proceed with escalation steps including regulatory complaints and potential legal action.
Statute of Limitations for Legal Claims: Missouri has different limitation periods depending on the type of claim. Breach of lease agreement claims have a five-year statute of limitations under Section 516.120 RSMo. Negligence claims typically have a five-year limitation period. Personal injury claims have a five-year limitation. Property damage claims must be brought within five years. While these periods are relatively long, acting promptly preserves evidence and demonstrates that the issue was serious.
Security Deposit Return Deadline: Under Section 535.300 RSMo, landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination and tenant delivery of possession. If the landlord withholds any portion, they must provide an itemized list of damages. This is relevant when landlords attempt to charge for damages that actually resulted from their failure to maintain the property.
St. Louis Building Division Complaints: You can file a complaint with the St. Louis City Building Division at any time during your tenancy. There is no deadline to file, but filing promptly when problems arise creates a stronger record. The Building Division will schedule an inspection and issue any violations found.
Small Claims Court Filing: Missouri Associate Circuit Courts handle small claims up to $5,000. You can file a claim at any time before the applicable statute of limitations expires. For ongoing habitability issues, you may file while still residing in the property or after moving out. Court filing fees are modest and the process is designed for self-representation.
Document Retention: Keep all documentation related to habitability issues for at least five years after the issue is resolved or after you move out, whichever is later. This protects you if disputes arise later, including security deposit disputes or claims by the landlord for damages that actually resulted from deferred maintenance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in St. Louis Landlord Repair Claims
Failing to Provide Written Notice: One of the most common and damaging mistakes is failing to document your repair requests in writing. Verbal complaints to a landlord or property manager may be forgotten or denied later. Always follow up verbal communications with written notice via email or certified mail that creates a permanent record. Written notice establishes that the landlord knew about the problem and had opportunity to fix it.
Not Documenting the Problem Thoroughly: Many tenants fail to create adequate documentation of habitability problems. Taking only a few photos or failing to keep records of communications undermines your case. Document extensively from the moment you discover a problem. Take numerous photographs and videos from multiple angles. Keep a written log of conditions over time. Save all communications. Thorough documentation is your strongest evidence.
Withholding Rent Without Following Proper Procedures: Missouri law does not explicitly provide for rent withholding as a self-help remedy for habitability violations. Tenants who simply stop paying rent without following proper legal procedures risk eviction. If you believe rent abatement is appropriate, consult with an attorney about proper procedures. Consider paying rent into an escrow account while disputing habitability issues. Never withhold rent without understanding the legal consequences.
Making Unauthorized Repairs and Expecting Reimbursement: Some tenants make repairs themselves and then attempt to deduct the cost from rent. Missouri law does not clearly provide a repair-and-deduct remedy for tenants. Unauthorized repairs may not be reimbursable and could even constitute lease violations. For significant repairs, get landlord authorization in writing before proceeding, or pursue proper legal remedies to compel the landlord to act.
Sending Demand Letters to the Wrong Party: Many tenants send demand letters to property managers or maintenance staff rather than the actual property owner. Always identify the legal owner of the property through the St. Louis City Assessor's records or Missouri Secretary of State database and send demands to that entity. Property managers may not have authority to commit to repairs or settlement.
Using Threatening or Emotional Language: Demand letters that contain threats, profanity, or emotional outbursts undermine your credibility. Maintain a professional, factual tone throughout your communications. Present the facts clearly, cite applicable legal standards, state your demands specifically, and describe consequences professionally. An emotional letter suggests you may be an unreasonable person rather than a tenant with legitimate concerns.
Failing to Give Reasonable Time for Repairs: Some tenants demand immediate repairs for non-emergency issues or set unrealistically short deadlines. While emergencies require immediate attention, routine repairs may reasonably take 14-30 days depending on the nature of the work. Setting unreasonable deadlines may hurt your credibility with a judge if the matter goes to court.
Not Filing Complaints with Building Division: The St. Louis City Building Division and municipal building departments can be powerful allies in habitability disputes. Many tenants never file complaints, missing an opportunity for official documentation of violations. Building inspectors can cite landlords and impose fines, creating pressure for repairs beyond what a demand letter alone can achieve.
Ignoring Lease Procedures for Repair Requests: Many leases specify procedures for reporting repair needs. While landlords cannot waive habitability obligations, failing to follow lease procedures for initial repair requests may complicate your case. Review your lease and follow any reasonable notice procedures specified, even while preparing formal legal action.
Accepting Promises Without Written Confirmation: When landlords promise to make repairs, get the commitment in writing with specific timelines. Verbal promises are easily broken and difficult to prove. After any conversation about repairs, send a follow-up email summarizing what was promised and asking for written confirmation. This creates a record and holds the landlord accountable.
Not Seeking Legal Advice for Significant Issues: For serious habitability problems involving health hazards, significant damages, or lease termination, consulting with a tenant rights attorney is important. Legal Services of Eastern Missouri provides free legal assistance to qualifying tenants. Many private attorneys offer free consultations. Legal advice can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Landlord Repairs in St. Louis
Under Missouri's implied warranty of habitability, landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition fit for human habitation. This includes providing working heating and cooling systems, maintaining plumbing and electrical systems, keeping the structure weathertight and structurally sound, addressing pest infestations, and ensuring the property is safe and sanitary. The St. Louis housing code further specifies minimum standards including 70-degree heating capability, hot water, working plumbing fixtures, and freedom from rodent and insect infestation.
Missouri Associate Circuit Courts handle small claims up to $5,000. This covers most habitability damage claims including rent abatement, repair costs you incurred, damaged personal property, and related expenses. If your damages exceed $5,000, you can reduce your claim to fit within the limit or file in regular Circuit Court for larger amounts. St. Louis City civil courts are located at 10 North Tucker Boulevard, and St. Louis County Circuit Court is in Clayton.
Missouri does not have a clear statutory right allowing tenants to withhold rent for habitability violations. Simply stopping rent payments without following proper legal procedures can result in eviction. If you believe rent abatement is appropriate, consult with a tenant rights attorney about proper procedures. Options may include paying rent into an escrow account while pursuing repairs through legal channels. Never withhold rent without understanding the potential consequences.
You can file a housing complaint with the St. Louis City Building Division by calling 314-622-3313 or through the City's Citizens' Service Bureau at 314-622-4800. You can also report issues online through the STL Citizen's Service Center. An inspector will be assigned to investigate your complaint and document any code violations. For St. Louis County municipalities, contact your local building department.
Missouri law prohibits landlord retaliation against tenants who exercise their legal rights, including requesting repairs or filing complaints with housing authorities. Retaliation may include rent increases, eviction notices, reduction of services, or harassment. Document any retaliatory actions carefully. If you believe your landlord is retaliating, consult with a tenant rights attorney and consider filing a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General's office.
Many tenants can write effective demand letters without an attorney, especially for straightforward repair issues. This guide provides the information you need to draft a proper demand letter. However, consider consulting an attorney for complex issues, significant health hazards, claims involving large damages, or if you're considering lease termination. Legal Services of Eastern Missouri provides free legal assistance to qualifying tenants at 314-534-4200.
Missouri law doesn't specify exact timeframes, but courts consider whether the landlord responded within a reasonable time. Emergency repairs affecting health and safety require immediate attention, typically within 24-48 hours. Significant habitability issues should be addressed within 14 days. Complex repairs requiring contractors may take up to 30 days. Document when you reported the problem and any delays in the landlord's response.
Missouri courts recognize that tenants may be entitled to terminate leases when landlords substantially breach the implied warranty of habitability. However, lease termination is a serious step with potential consequences. Before breaking your lease, document the habitability problems thoroughly, provide written notice to the landlord with opportunity to cure, and ideally consult with an attorney. Improper lease termination could result in liability for unpaid rent.
What to Expect When Resolving Landlord Repair Disputes in St. Louis
Settlement expectations for landlord repair disputes in St. Louis depend on the nature and severity of the habitability problem, the quality of your documentation, the landlord's resources and motivations, and your persistence in pursuing the matter. Understanding realistic outcomes helps you evaluate settlement offers and make informed decisions about whether to accept, negotiate further, or proceed to litigation.
For many repair issues, the primary goal is simply getting the landlord to make repairs promptly. A well-drafted demand letter that demonstrates your knowledge of Missouri law and St. Louis housing codes often motivates landlords to act. Many landlords prefer to fix problems rather than face code violation citations, legal liability, and the costs of defending lawsuits. Don't underestimate the power of a professional demand letter backed by solid documentation.
When negotiating monetary compensation for habitability problems, consider several categories of damages. Rent abatement compensates you for periods when the property was not fully habitable. Courts may reduce rent proportionally based on how much the problem affected your use of the property. For example, if a heating failure in January made bedrooms unusable, a significant rent reduction for that period may be appropriate. Document the impact on your daily living to support your abatement claim.
Out-of-pocket expenses directly caused by the landlord's failure to maintain the property are recoverable. This includes costs for temporary repairs you made, alternative heating or cooling you purchased, pest control products, temporary housing if you had to leave the unit, damaged personal property, and related expenses. Keep all receipts and document the causal connection between the landlord's failure and your expenses.
Settlement negotiations with landlords vary significantly based on the type of landlord. Individual landlords with one or a few properties may be more willing to negotiate directly but may also have limited resources. Large property management companies may have standardized processes and may require more formal pressure before settling. Corporate landlords may be concerned about setting precedents that affect other properties.
The involvement of the St. Louis Building Division often changes settlement dynamics. When city inspectors cite landlords for code violations, the pressure to resolve tenant complaints increases. Violation notices, fines, and the potential for more serious enforcement action motivate compliance. If you've filed a building complaint and violations were found, this strengthens your negotiating position.
When evaluating settlement offers, consider both monetary compensation and repair commitments. Sometimes getting repairs made quickly is more valuable than maximizing a monetary recovery. Be clear about your priorities and what you need to remain in the property safely. Get all settlement terms in writing, including specific repair commitments with deadlines.
If settlement negotiations fail, Missouri courts provide remedies for habitability violations. Small claims court handles matters up to $5,000 and provides a relatively simple process for tenants. For larger claims or more complex issues, regular Circuit Court may be necessary. Missouri courts can award rent abatement, damages, and in egregious cases, punitive damages for willful violations.
St. Louis Landlord-Tenant Resources and Contacts
St. Louis City Building Division: Enforces housing codes and investigates tenant complaints about habitability violations in St. Louis City properties. Inspectors can cite landlords for violations and order repairs.
Phone: (314) 622-3313
Citizens' Service Bureau: (314) 622-4800
Address: 1520 Market Street, Room 2012, St. Louis, MO 63103
Website: stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/public-safety/building
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri: Provides free legal assistance to income-eligible tenants for housing matters including habitability disputes, eviction defense, and security deposit claims.
Phone: (314) 534-4200
Toll-free: (800) 444-0514
Address: 4232 Forest Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108
Website: lsem.org
Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council (EHOC): Provides housing counseling, education, and advocacy for tenants facing housing problems including discrimination and habitability issues.
Phone: (314) 534-5800
Address: 1027 South Vandeventer Avenue, 6th Floor, St. Louis, MO 63110
Website: ehocstl.org
Missouri Attorney General Consumer Protection Division: Investigates complaints about landlords engaging in unfair or deceptive practices. Can take enforcement action for patterns of violations.
Phone: (573) 751-3321
Toll-free: (800) 392-8222
Website: ago.mo.gov
Address: Supreme Court Building, 207 West High Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
St. Louis City Circuit Court - Civil Courts Building: Handles civil matters including landlord-tenant disputes. The Associate Circuit Court division handles small claims up to $5,000.
Phone: (314) 622-4405
Address: 10 North Tucker Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63101
Website: stlcitycircuitcourt.com
St. Louis County Circuit Court: Handles civil matters for St. Louis County residents including landlord-tenant disputes.
Phone: (314) 615-2560
Address: 105 South Central Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105
Website: stlouisco.com/lawandpublicsafety/circuitcourt
HUD St. Louis Field Office: The Department of Housing and Urban Development handles complaints about housing discrimination and issues with HUD-subsidized housing.
Phone: (314) 539-6583
Address: 1222 Spruce Street, Suite 3207, St. Louis, MO 63103
Website: hud.gov
St. Louis Mediation Project: Offers free mediation services for landlord-tenant disputes as an alternative to litigation.
Phone: (314) 664-8466
Website: stlmediationproject.org
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: Handles complaints about health hazards in rental housing including lead paint, mold, and sanitation issues.
Phone: (573) 751-6400
Website: health.mo.gov
St. Louis Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: Provides referrals to attorneys who handle landlord-tenant matters.
Phone: (314) 621-6681
Website: stlbar.com
The Tenant Rights Playbook
Document Everything
Photos, videos, dates. Every leak, every broken fixture, every hazard. Evidence is power.
Written Requests Matter
Verbal requests don't count. Emails, texts, certified letters. Create a paper trail.
Know the Deadlines
Most places give landlords 14-30 days for non-emergency repairs. Emergencies? 24-48 hours.
Habitability Laws Protect You
Most jurisdictions have implied warranty of habitability. Landlords must maintain livable conditions or face consequences.
Missouri Landlord Repairs / Habitability Laws
Applicable Laws
- Missouri Revised Statutes § 441.234
- Implied Warranty of Habitability
Notice Period
14 days
Consumer Protection Agency
Missouri Attorney General
Repair Demand FAQ
What repairs must my landlord make?
Plumbing, heating, electrical, structural issues, pest control, and anything affecting health/safety.
Can I withhold rent?
Some places allow it for serious issues. Check your local laws first - do it wrong and you could face eviction.
How long does my landlord have to make repairs?
Emergency repairs (no heat, flooding) typically require 24-48 hours. Non-emergency repairs usually allow 14-30 days depending on your location.
Can I hire someone and deduct from rent?
Many jurisdictions allow 'repair and deduct' for urgent issues after proper notice. The cost must be reasonable and the repair necessary.
What if the problem makes my unit uninhabitable?
You may be entitled to rent reduction, temporary housing costs, or the right to break your lease without penalty.
Do I need to let my landlord in for repairs?
Yes, but they must give proper notice (usually 24-48 hours) except for genuine emergencies. You can request repairs during reasonable hours.
Can I be evicted for complaining about repairs?
Retaliation for requesting repairs is illegal in most places. Document everything and know your state's anti-retaliation protections.
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FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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