Missouri Carpet Cleaning Security Deposit Rule

Missouri’s deposit statute contains a specific carpet-cleaning provision. A rental agreement may set amounts or fees for carpet cleaning, and actual amounts expended can be withheld when the lease contains the required notice. The statute also calls for a receipt for actual carpet-cleaning costs within 30 days after the tenancy ends.

Last reviewed: August 30, 20261 official source cited

Lease agreementCan set carpet-cleaning amount/fee

Subject to the statutory language.

Actual cost receiptWithin 30 days

For actual carpet-cleaning costs under the provision.

Damage beyond wearActual excess cost may matter

The lease notice must address potential actual costs beyond ordinary wear and tear.

Ask for the exact basis

Lease carpet-cleaning clause.
Required tenant notice in the lease.
Vendor receipt or actual cost record.
Whether the work was routine cleaning or treatment for tenant-caused damage.
Move-in/move-out carpet condition.

Review the lease and actual condition. Missouri distinguishes ordinary wear from chargeable damage and has a specific carpet-cleaning provision. Educational information only.

Official sources

Missouri Revisor of StatutesRSMo § 535.300 — Security deposits ↗

Current official Missouri statute covering the two-month cap, 30-day return/itemization, permissible withholdings, move-out inspection, carpet-cleaning provision and wrongful-withholding damages.

Related Missouri guides

Security Deposit →2-Month Limit →30-Day Rule →Move-Out Inspection →