• Missouri landlord/tenant law governs renter rights in Missouri.apartment for rent image by dead_account from Fotolia.com
  
  Missouri's landlord/tenant laws are found in the Missouri Statutes, sections 441.005 to 441.008 and in 535.150 to 535.300. These laws set forth the rights and responsibilities for landlords and tenants in Missouri. In general, a renter in Missouri has various obligations similar to other states: the renter must pay rent on time, use the property with care and obey the terms of the lease. In return, renters have certain rights.
  
  

Right to Habitable Living Space

• Missouri renters have the right to live in a property that is "capable of being lived in" (according to MissouriFamilies.org). This means that the landlord must maintain all appliances that come with the property (such as the furnace and water heater) and must take measures to ensure that the property meets all building and housing codes in Missouri. This means the landlord must provide electricity, heating and septic systems to the property.
  
  

Right to Safe and Secure Common Areas

• In leased properties that have common areas (hallways, courtyards or exercise rooms are examples), landlords must ensure that these areas are safe and secure. The landlord must remove all debris from these areas, and the landlord must take appropriate measures to ensure safety (such as by installing sufficient lighting and locks).
  
  

Right to Sublease the Property

• Missouri renters wishing to move out of the property before the lease ends may sublease the property. Note that Missouri renters are still liable for rent if the person subleasing the property does not pay the rent. Also, Missouri renters must get approval of the landlord to sublease the apartment or else Missouri law allows the landlord to double the rent.
  
  

Right to Be Present During Move Out Inspection

• Missouri landlord/tenant law allows landlords to collect a maximum of two months rent as a security deposit. The deposit must be returned to the tenant provided no problems (such as damage to the apartment) are present, requiring the landlord to fix the problems with the money. To ensure that the tenant's money is spent appropriately, the tenant has the right to be present during move out inspections.