Missouri does not require landlords to change or re-key locks after a tenant moves out. There is no general Missouri statute requiring landlords to re-key a rental between tenancies.

That said, changing or re-keying the locks after a tenant moves out is still a good practice. Former tenants may have kept keys or made copies, so changing the locks helps protect the property and the next tenant.

Even though Missouri law does not generally require you to change the locks between tenants, doing so can help prevent unauthorized access to the property.

If a former tenant kept a key and later entered the property without permission, it could create unnecessary problems for both you and the new tenant. Re-keying the property is a relatively inexpensive way to reduce that risk.

Your lease should also clearly address whether tenants are permitted to change or replace locks during the tenancy and, if so, whether they must provide you with a replacement key.

Make sure whatever approach you choose is spelled out clearly in your lease.

There is no general Missouri statute imposing a penalty simply because you did not change or re-key the locks after a tenant moved out.

However, if a former tenant retained a key and later gained unauthorized access to the property, the situation could create practical or potential liability issues depending on the circumstances.

Changing or re-keying the locks between tenants is a simple precaution that can help avoid those problems.

Once you've served the proper notice and the tenant hasn't left or paid up, you can file in court. Depending on the circumstances, the landlord may file a Rent and Possession or Unlawful Detainer action in the circuit court for the county where the property is located.

The correct filing depends on whether the case involves unpaid rent, a breach of the lease, or a tenant who refuses to leave after the right to possession has ended.

Filing fees vary by county.

The Summons

After the case is filed, the court will issue a summons notifying the tenant of the case and court date.

Landlords should not attempt to personally serve their own eviction summons. Service must be completed in accordance with Missouri's rules for service of process.

Make sure all individuals whose possession of the property needs to be terminated are properly addressed in the eviction case. This can help prevent problems when possession of the property is ultimately returned.

Who pays to change the locks? You can charge the tenant for re-keying costs — either as a move-out deduction from the security deposit or as a lease term. Re-keying locks if a tenant fails to return all keys is a permitted security deposit deduction under Missouri law. Just make sure the amount is reasonable and documented.

Can I change the locks to force a tenant out? No. Self-help evictions, such as changing the locks without going through the courts, are prohibited in Missouri. Do it the right way or it'll cost you more in the long run.

What if there's an emergency — drugs, violence, serious damage? An immediate eviction in Missouri may be ordered under certain circumstances, including drug-related criminal activity on the premises. Talk to us before acting on your own.

Petition for Rent and Possession -
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Missouri Revised Statutes, Title 29, Chapters 441 and 535 — mo.gov/mosl

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