Many Tenants have children living at the property. Under both the federal Fair Housing Act and the Missouri Human Rights Act (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 213.010 et seq.), you cannot deny housing to a Tenant based on familial status — which includes families with children under 18. Violating this rule is a federal and state crime.

Once a minor reaches 18, they are legally an adult. At that point, you have an adult living in the unit who is not on the lease — which is not a good position to be in. They become a "guest" of the Tenant (make sure your lease defines and limits this — use ours).

If you are comfortable with the now-adult child continuing to live in the home, use a Co-Tenant Addendum to bring them under the lease. This protects you and gives them formal status as a Tenant subject to your lease terms.

💡 Pro Tip: Address the 18-year-old situation early — before it becomes a problem. Once they're an adult living in the unit without a lease, your leverage to require a background check, credit check, or co-signer disappears.

Fair Housing Act (Familial Status) — 42 U.S.C. § 3604

Missouri Human Rights Act — Mo. Rev. Stat. § 213.010 et seq.

⚖️ Disclaimer — This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice or a legal opinion on any specific case or situation. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. We make no guarantees as to accuracy, completeness, or changes in the law.