In Nevada, both landlords and tenants have distinct rights and obligations under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A.

Tenant Rights:

• The right to habitable living conditions (including proper plumbing, heating, and structural safety).

• The right to privacy, with landlords required to give 24-hour notice before entering (except emergencies).

• The right to receive a written lease agreement outlining terms, rent, and policies.

• Protection from unlawful eviction or retaliatory actions from landlords.

 

Landlord Rights:

• The right to collect rent on time and charge late fees if stated in the lease.

• The ability to withhold a security deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

• The authority to evict tenants for lease violations, nonpayment, or illegal activities (following legal procedures).

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Compliance with Fair Housing Laws in Nevada

Landlords in Nevada must comply with federal and state fair housing laws, ensuring that they do not discriminate against tenants based on:

• Race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status (Fair Housing Act).

• Sexual orientation, gender identity, or ancestry (protected under Nevada law).

 

Prohibited Actions Under Fair Housing Laws:

• Refusing to rent or negotiate based on a protected characteristic.

• Setting different terms or conditions for specific tenants.

• Harassing or retaliating against tenants who assert their fair housing rights.

Landlords should ensure fair and consistent screening criteria for all applicants, avoiding biased or discriminatory practices.

Security Deposits in Nevada

Legal Limits on Security Deposits

• Nevada landlords cannot charge more than three months' rent as a security deposit (NRS 118A.242).

• Deposits may cover unpaid rent, damages, and cleaning costs but not normal wear and tear.

 

Returning the Security Deposit

• Landlords must return the deposit within 30 days of lease termination.

• If deductions are made, a written itemized statement must be provided.

• Failure to return the deposit can result in the tenant suing for up to double the withheld amount.

Maintenance Responsibilities of Landlords

Under Nevada law, landlords must maintain safe and habitable living conditions. This includes:

Landlord Obligations:

• Ensuring plumbing, heating, electrical, and appliances are in good working condition.

• Providing garbage removal and running water (unless agreed otherwise in writing).

• Addressing necessary repairs within a reasonable time after tenant requests.

 

Tenant Responsibilities:

• Keeping the property clean and sanitary.

• Reporting needed repairs in a timely manner.

• Not deliberately causing damage beyond normal wear and tear.

If a landlord fails to make necessary repairs, tenants may have legal recourse, including rent withholding or lease termination.

 

Eviction Procedures for Nevada Landlords

Evictions in Nevada must follow a legal process, with landlords prohibited from using self-help evictions (such as changing locks or shutting off utilities).

Common Legal Grounds for Eviction:

1. Nonpayment of Rent – A 7-day "Pay or Quit" Notice must be issued.

2. Lease Violations – A 5-day "Cure or Quit" Notice applies for curable breaches (e.g., unauthorized pets).

3. Illegal Activities – Immediate 5-day Unconditional Quit Notice may be issued.

4. No-Cause Evictions – For month-to-month tenants, a 30-day notice is required.

 

Eviction Process:

1. Serve the proper eviction notice as required by law.

2. File an eviction lawsuit in court if the tenant fails to comply.

3. Attend the court hearing, where the judge will decide the case.

4. If the eviction is granted, obtain a court order for tenant removal.

Illegal Evictions: Landlords cannot forcibly remove tenants without a court order. Violating this can lead to fines and legal penalties.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Nevada landlord-tenant laws is crucial for ensuring smooth rental relationships and avoiding legal disputes. Whether you are a landlord seeking to comply with housing regulations or a tenant protecting your rights, staying informed helps maintain fair and legal rental agreements.