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Legal Rights Handbook

Nevada Renter Rights & Landlord Laws 2025

Everything tenants and landlords need to know about Nevada housing laws. Eviction rules, deposits, and rights.

Updated January 15, 2026
5 min read

Nevada Renter Rights & Landlord Laws Guide 2025

Target Audience: Renters and Landlords in Nevada
Jurisdiction: State of Nevada (NRS 118A, NRS 40.240, NRS 40.250)
Update: 2025 Edition

1. Overview: Tenant-Friendly vs. Landlord-Friendly

Verdict: Landlord-Friendly (Score: High)

Nevada is generally considered a Landlord-Friendly state. The legal framework favors property owners' rights to recover their assets and collect rent efficiently. However, this does not mean landlords can operate without restrictions. The state has specific statutes that protect tenants regarding habitability and privacy.

  • For Landlords: You have strong rights to evict non-paying tenants and set lease terms, but strict adherence to procedural laws is mandatory. One misstep can restart the eviction process or lead to fines.
  • For Tenants: While the state favors landlords, you are entitled to a habitable living space and due process. You cannot be self-help evicted (locks changed) without a court order.

2. Security Deposits

Nevada law regulates security deposits to ensure funds are available for the tenant upon moving out.

Limits

  • No State Cap: Nevada does not set a maximum limit on the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. It is typically equivalent to one month’s rent, but can be higher for higher-risk situations (e.g., pets).
  • Non-Refundable Fees: Any fee labeled "non-refundable" (such as a cleaning fee) must be explicitly stated in the lease. General security deposits are presumed refundable.

Return Requirements

  • Timeline: Landlords must return the security deposit, or an itemized list of deductions, within 30 days after the tenant vacates the premises.
  • Deductions: Landlords may deduct for:
    • Unpaid rent.
    • Damage beyond normal wear and tear.
    • Cleaning costs (if the unit is left significantly dirtier than at move-in).
  • Penalties: If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement within 30 days, the tenant may be entitled to the full deposit plus court costs and potentially damages equal to the deposit amount.

3. Eviction Rules

Nevada provides a streamlined eviction process, making it relatively fast for landlords compared to other states.

The Process

  1. Notice to Quit: The landlord must serve a formal written notice.
  2. Filing: If the tenant does not comply, the landlord files a Summary Eviction (Forcible Detainer) suit in the Justice Court of the township where the property is located.
  3. Hearing: A hearing is scheduled, usually within a few days of filing.
  4. Writ of Restitution: If the judge rules for the landlord, a writ is issued, and the Constable will physically remove the tenant if they haven't left.

Notice Periods

  • Non-Payment of Rent:
    • 5-Day Notice: The landlord may serve a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit. The tenant has five days to pay the full rent or move out. Note: This is a strict timeline.
  • Lease Violations (Non-Monetary):
    • Usually 5 Days: For violations like unauthorized pets or occupants, a 5-Day Notice to Comply or Quit is standard.
  • Month-to-Month Tenancy Termination:
    • 30 Days: Either party may terminate a month-to-month tenancy with 30 days' written notice (unless the lease specifies a different period).

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING FOR LANDLORDS: You cannot physically remove a tenant or lock them out. You must obtain a court order and have the Constable execute the eviction. Self-help evictions are illegal and can result in the landlord owing the tenant triple damages.

4. Landlord Entry

Nevada balances the landlord's right to inspect with the tenant's right to quiet enjoyment.

  • Notice Required: Yes.
  • Standard Notice: Landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering the rental unit.
  • Consent: The tenant generally has the right to consent to the entry. However, consent is implied if the notice is given and the entry is for a legitimate purpose.
  • Permitted Times: Entry is typically allowed between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
  • Emergencies: No notice is required in case of an emergency (e.g., fire, flood, imminent danger).

5. Rent Control

  • Statewide Ban: Nevada has no rent control.
  • Rent Increases: Landlords may increase rent at the end of a lease term or with proper notice (typically 30 days for month-to-month tenancies). There is no legal cap on the percentage of increase.
  • Local Ordinances: Major cities like Las Vegas and Reno do not have local rent control ordinances. Rent pricing is driven by market forces.

6. Special Warning for Landlords

Topic: Strict Procedural Compliance Required

Because Nevada is Landlord-Friendly, the courts process evictions quickly, but they are unforgiving regarding paperwork. If you want to evict a tenant or keep a security deposit, you must follow the letter of the law.

  • The "Pay or Quit" Trap: If you serve a 5-day notice for non-payment, ensure the math is exact. If the tenant pays the full amount within those 5 days, you must accept it and stop the eviction. If you refuse valid payment, the court may dismiss your case.
  • Service of Process: Notices must be served correctly (usually by a process server or certified mail). Tape-recording the notice on the door is often insufficient unless specific statutory requirements are met.
  • Retaliation is Illegal: Do not raise rent or threaten eviction because a tenant complained to a government agency about code violations. Nevada law provides specific protections against retaliation.

7. Special Warning for Tenants

Topic: Your Right to "Quiet Enjoyment" and Habitation

While the state favors landlords in eviction speed, you have leverage regarding the condition of the property.

  • Repair and Deduct: If the landlord fails to fix essential services (heat, water, AC in extreme heat) within 14 days of written notice, you may have the right to repair the issue yourself and deduct the cost from rent (up to one month’s rent), or move out and terminate the lease.
  • Retaliation Defense: If a landlord attempts to evict you shortly after you report code violations, you can use "retaliation" as a defense in court.
  • Lockouts: If your landlord changes the locks or cuts off utilities without a court order, call the police immediately (this is an illegal eviction) and seek legal aid.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Landlords and Tenants should consult with a qualified attorney or the Nevada Legal Services for specific legal situations.