Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate

Last Updated: March 6, 2023 by Marnie Snyder

Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate is an eviction letter delivered to the tenant for an incurable violation, such as possessing controlled substances, permitting prostitution or allowing gambling on the premises. The tenant does not have the option to fix the issue and must move out within ten (10) calendar days.

When to Use a Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate

Use a 10 Day Notice to Vacate to begin the eviction process in Missouri:

  • If the tenant possessed, sold or distributed controlled substances.
  • If the tenant permitted the premises to be used for gambling or prostitution.
  • If the tenant caused serious property damage to the premises.
  • If the tenant assigned or transferred their interest in the lease without the landlord’s written consent.

If none of the above are true, use one of the below forms to evict a tenant:

  • Notice to Quit for Unpaid Rent – If the tenant is late on rent (starting the day after it’s due), either in part or in full.
  • 5 Day Notice to Comply or Vacate – If a person, other than the tenant, committed a criminal act on the premises, such as causing physical injury to the tenant, landlord or other persons, committed substantial property damage or engaged in drug related activity.
  • 10 Day Notice to Comply or Vacate – If the tenant violated the rules with too many occupants residing in the rental unit, failed to maintain the premises in a clean or sanitary manner, refused to allow the landlord access to the rental unit or violated any other provisions of the lease.
  • 30 Day Notice to Vacate – If the tenant or landlord is terminating a tenancy of less than one (1) year, including a periodic lease (i.e. week-to-week or month-to-month). This letter may also be used for tenants with no written lease or for tenants with an expired lease.

How to Write a Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate

The Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate form shall be completed as follows:

  1. Write all adult tenants’ names (do not include minors);
  2. Fill in the complete address of the rental premises;
  3. Check the box to indicate the incurable breach;
  4. Include the tenant’s balance due, if applicable;
  5. Enter the date the tenancy terminates;
  6. Include the date the notice is served;
  7. Landlord prints name and signs notice;
  8. Landlord includes address and phone number.

How to Serve a Missouri 10 Day Notice to Vacate

A landlord can deliver notices in Missouri using either of the below acceptable methods:

  1. Handing the notice to the tenant in person;
  2. Handing the notice to a person of suitable age and discretion (over the age of 18) AND mailing the notice by certified mail with a return receipt requiring the receiving party’s signature.

When sending the notice by certified mail, add three (3) calendar days to the notice period to account for variability in post office delivery times.

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