Key Takeaways
- Nevada's Landlord-Tenant Law is found in NRS Chapter 118A
- Security deposits cannot exceed three months' rent for residential property
- Landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of lease termination
- Nevada requires landlords to provide habitable premises and make necessary repairs
- Evictions must follow proper legal procedures including notice requirements
Nevada Landlord-Tenant Law
Nevada's Landlord-Tenant Law (NRS Chapter 118A) governs residential rental relationships and establishes rights and responsibilities for both parties.
Security Deposits
Maximum Amount
| Lease Type | Maximum Deposit |
|---|---|
| Standard lease | 3 months' rent |
| Lease term less than expected | May require more with written agreement |
Deposit Return Requirements
| Requirement | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Return of deposit | Within 30 days of lease termination |
| Itemized statement | Required if deductions made |
| Forwarding address | Tenant must provide |
| Failure to return | Tenant may recover full deposit plus damages |
Allowable Deductions
| Deduction | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Unpaid rent | Yes |
| Damage beyond normal wear | Yes |
| Cleaning costs | Yes, if stated in lease |
| Normal wear and tear | NO |
| Carpet replacement (normal use) | NO |
Key Point: Landlords cannot deduct for normal wear and tear - only for damage caused by the tenant beyond normal use.
Landlord Obligations
Implied Warranty of Habitability
Nevada landlords must provide premises that are:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Fit for habitation | Meets basic living standards |
| Safe | No hazards to health or safety |
| Compliant | Meets building and housing codes |
| Functional | Working plumbing, heating, electrical |
Required Maintenance
| System | Landlord Must Maintain |
|---|---|
| Plumbing | Hot and cold running water |
| Heating | Adequate heat (HVAC) |
| Electrical | Safe and functional |
| Structure | Weatherproof, secure |
| Common areas | Clean and safe |
Tenant Obligations
| Obligation | Description |
|---|---|
| Pay rent | On time per lease terms |
| Maintain cleanliness | Keep unit sanitary |
| No damage | Don't damage property |
| Proper use | Use as residential dwelling only |
| Compliance | Follow lease terms and rules |
| Notify landlord | Report needed repairs promptly |
Eviction Procedures
Nevada requires specific procedures for eviction:
Notice Requirements
| Reason | Notice Period |
|---|---|
| Nonpayment of rent | 7-day notice (judicial) |
| Lease violation | 5-day notice to cure |
| No-fault (month-to-month) | 30-day notice |
| Criminal activity/nuisance | Immediate or 3-day notice |
Eviction Process
- Serve proper notice according to reason
- File unlawful detainer if tenant doesn't comply
- Court hearing scheduled
- Court order for possession if landlord prevails
- Sheriff removal if tenant doesn't vacate
Prohibited Actions (Self-Help Eviction)
Landlords CANNOT:
| Prohibited Action | Example |
|---|---|
| Lock out tenant | Changing locks |
| Utility shutoff | Turning off power/water |
| Remove belongings | Taking tenant's property |
| Harassment | Threats or intimidation |
Warning: Self-help eviction is illegal in Nevada. Landlords must use court procedures.
Rent Increases
| Lease Type | Notice Required |
|---|---|
| Month-to-month | 45 days' notice (60 days for 62+ tenants) |
| Fixed-term lease | Only at lease renewal |
Property Manager Requirements
Property managers in Nevada must be:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Licensed | Must hold real estate license |
| Supervision | Work under licensed broker |
| Trust accounts | Separate accounts for security deposits |
| CE requirement | Additional 9 hours for PM permit |
Note: Property managers must hold separate trust accounts for rental operations and security deposits.
What is the maximum security deposit a Nevada landlord can charge for a residential rental?
How long does a Nevada landlord have to return a security deposit after the tenant moves out?
Which of the following is considered illegal "self-help" eviction in Nevada?