Want Your Deposit Back?

It's time to move and you're wondering when you'll get your deposit back — or you moved out over a month ago and it still hasn't been returned.

This information is specific to Missouri. Tenant laws vary by state.

I want my deposit back

• Not more than two months' rent. A landlord may not collect more than double your rent as a deposit.
• Must be returned in 30 days. Your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of move-out, along with an explanation of any deductions made for repairs.
• Ordinary wear and tear. A landlord may deduct the reasonable cost of repairing damage you caused, such as carpet burns or holes in the wall — but not ordinary wear and tear like fresh paint or routine carpet cleaning.
• Walk-through. Your landlord must tell you when they'll conduct the move-out walk-through. Attend it, take photos, and dispute any damage you did not cause.
• Penalty. If your landlord wrongfully withholds all or part of your deposit, a court can order them to pay you up to double the amount wrongfully withheld.

Get help

If you think your landlord made improper deductions, low-wage workers can call our office for a consultation.