Nevada Landlord-Tenant Laws Guide

Nevada's landlord-tenant laws, found in NRS Chapter 118A, provide important protections for renters in the Silver State. While Nevada is generally considered landlord-friendly, tenants still have significant rights regarding security deposits, habitability, and eviction procedures.

This guide covers Nevada's security deposit rules, habitability requirements, eviction procedures, and how to recover your deposit when landlords violate the law.

Security Deposit Rules

Deposit Limits

Under NRS 118A.242:

• Maximum: Three months' rent
• Includes security deposit, cleaning deposit, and pet deposit
• Non-refundable fees don't count toward the limit

Return Timeline

• Deadline: 30 days after lease termination
• Itemization: Written statement required for any deductions
• Forwarding address: Must be provided in writing

Walk-Through Inspection

Nevada law requires:

• Landlord must offer move-out inspection
• Tenant has right to be present
• Landlord must identify any claimed damage
• Gives tenant opportunity to repair before move-out

Habitability Standards

Nevada landlords must maintain:

• Buildings in compliance with housing codes
• All plumbing in good working order
• Running water and reasonable hot water
• Heating facilities in working condition
• Electrical systems safe and functional
• Common areas clean and safe
• Locks on all exterior doors and windows
• Air conditioning (if provided) in working order

Repair Process

1. Give written notice of needed repairs
2. Allow 14 days for non-emergency repairs
3. For emergencies affecting health/safety, 48 hours
4. If not repaired, tenant may:
   • Repair and deduct (up to one month's rent)
   • Terminate lease with 14 days notice
   • Sue for damages

Eviction Protections

For Non-Payment

• 7-day notice to pay or quit
• Tenant can cure by paying within 7 days
• If unpaid, landlord files unlawful detainer
• Court hearing typically within 10-20 days

For Lease Violations

• 5-day notice for nuisance or illegal activity
• 5-day notice for material lease violations
• 30-day notice for month-to-month termination

Illegal Self-Help Evictions

Landlords cannot:

• Lock out tenants without court order
• Shut off utilities
• Remove doors, windows, or tenant belongings
• Use threats or harassment

Illegal lockout penalty: Actual damages or one month's rent, whichever is greater.

Las Vegas Specific Rules

Clark County (Las Vegas area) may have:

• Additional local ordinances
• Justice Court procedures for small claims
• Tenant advocacy resources
• Legal aid programs

Breaking a Lease

Early termination without penalty for:

• Military deployment: Under federal SCRA and NRS 118A.370
• Domestic violence: With 30 days notice and documentation
• Uninhabitable conditions: After proper notice
• Senior citizens: Moving to care facility

Landlord's Duty to Mitigate

Nevada landlords must make reasonable efforts to re-rent if you break your lease. They cannot leave the unit empty and charge you for the full remaining term.

Nevada Small Claims (Justice Court)

• Limit: $10,000
• Filing fee: $66-$100
• Where to file: Where property is located or defendant resides
• Lawyers: Allowed but not required

Demand Letter Strategy

Your Nevada demand letter should include:

1. Move-out date and forwarding address
2. Citation to NRS 118A.242
3. Amount of deposit paid
4. Specific objections to deductions
5. Note that landlord forfeits right to withhold if 30 days passed
6. 14-day deadline to respond
7. Intent to file in Justice Court

Nevada Consumer Affairs

The Consumer Affairs Division:

• Handles landlord-tenant complaints
• Provides information on tenant rights
• Mediates disputes
• Investigates violations

Common Illegal Deductions

Landlords cannot deduct for:

• Normal wear and tear
• Pre-existing damage
• Items past useful life
• Cleaning if you left unit clean
• Repainting if no damage to walls

Statute of Limitations

• Security deposits: 6 years
• Contract claims: 6 years
• Personal injury: 2 years

Nevada Tenant Resources

These Nevada agencies and resources can help with landlord-tenant disputes:

• Nevada Consumer Affairs: Consumer information and complaint filing
• Nevada Courts Self-Help: Court forms and procedures
• Nevada Legal Services: Free legal help for qualifying residents

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my Nevada landlord doesn't return my deposit within 30 days?

If your landlord fails to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 days, they forfeit the right to withhold any portion of your deposit. You can sue for the full deposit amount in Justice Court. This is a strict deadline - even one day late means the landlord loses the right to keep any of your money.

How much can my Nevada landlord charge for a security deposit?

Nevada limits security deposits to three months' rent. This includes all refundable deposits - security, pet, and cleaning deposits combined. Non-refundable fees (like a non-refundable pet fee) don't count toward this limit, but must be clearly labeled as non-refundable in the lease.

Can I repair issues myself and deduct from rent in Nevada?

Yes, under certain conditions. After giving written notice and waiting 14 days (48 hours for emergencies), you can make repairs yourself and deduct up to one month's rent. Keep all receipts and documentation. This remedy only applies to habitability issues, not cosmetic concerns.

Does my Nevada landlord have to offer a move-out inspection?

Yes. Nevada law requires landlords to offer you a walk-through inspection before you move out. You have the right to be present and see what the landlord claims is damage. This gives you the opportunity to repair issues or dispute claims before they deduct from your deposit.