Nebraska College Renter Rights: Student Housing Explained

Renting as a college student in Nebraska comes with unique questions and challenges. Whether you live in campus-owned apartments or rent from a private landlord off-campus, it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. This guide will help you understand Nebraska’s laws on leases, eviction protections, security deposits, repairs, and what to do if issues arise.

Your Rights as a Student Renter in Nebraska

Nebraska’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) protects all renters, including college students. Your rights apply whether your landlord is an individual, company, or college-owned housing.

• Written Lease: You have the right to a written lease agreement outlining rent, duration, rules, and responsibilities.
• Security Deposit Limit: Security deposits cannot exceed one month's rent, plus up to one extra month if you have pets.
• Maintenance & Repairs: Landlords must keep properties safe and in good repair. Report problems in writing so there is a record.
• Privacy: Landlords should give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, except for emergencies.
• Eviction Protections: Landlords cannot evict or lock you out without due process. Formal notice and an official court process are required.

Common Forms and When to Use Them

• Notice of Intent to Vacate (No official state form): Use this written notice when ending your lease early or when required by your agreement. State your move-out date and deliver it to your landlord as specified in your lease.
• Return of Security Deposit (No official state form): After moving out, request your deposit back in writing. Your landlord must return it within 14 days of your move-out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions. More details are on the Nebraska Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Rights page.
• Notice to Landlord of Required Repairs (No official state form): If something in your apartment needs urgent attention—like heating, plumbing, or safety issues—submit a written request. Keep a copy for your records.
• Court Eviction Forms: If served with eviction papers, you will receive an official legal notice and a Summons to appear in county court. Detailed instructions are found on the Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Help page.

Eviction and Dispute Resolution: The Tribunal

If you cannot resolve a dispute with your landlord, the matter usually goes to the Nebraska Judicial Branch County Court. This court handles all residential eviction ("forcible entry and detainer") actions in Nebraska.^[1]

Key Steps If You’re Facing Eviction

• Receive a Written Notice: For unpaid rent, landlords must give you a 7-day notice to pay or quit. For violations (other than non-payment), most lease breaches require a 30-day notice to correct or leave.
• Respond Quickly: If you receive a court summons, you must attend the hearing or respond as directed. Not showing up may result in eviction by default.
• Gather Documentation: Bring your lease, payment receipts, and any communication with your landlord to court.

Special Concerns for Student Renters

College renters often sign group leases or have roommates. Each person is usually responsible for the full rent if someone moves out early. Cosigners (often parents) may have legal responsibility too. Always read your lease closely and ask for clarification before signing.

Returning Your Security Deposit

When you move out, Nebraska law says your landlord must return your deposit within 14 days, minus any documented deductions for damages. Make a written request and provide your forwarding address.^[2]

Repairs and Maintenance: Know Your Rights

If repairs are needed and your landlord is not responding, submit a written request and keep a copy. Legally, you cannot withhold rent for repairs unless allowed by court order. If the issue is serious, you may be able to end your lease after proper written notice.

FAQ: Student Housing Rights in Nebraska

1. Can my landlord increase the rent without warning?
   No, your landlord must give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising the rent if you have a month-to-month lease.^[3]
2. What happens if my roommate moves out early?
   You may still be responsible for the full rent if you signed a joint lease. Always check your agreement first.
3. Do I get my security deposit back if I break the lease?
   The landlord can deduct unpaid rent or damages, but must return the remainder and provide an itemized list of deductions.
4. Is college-run housing covered by Nebraska tenant laws?
   Generally, on-campus housing (like dorms) may have different policies, but most university apartments and off-campus rentals follow state landlord-tenant law. Check with your school’s housing office for details.
5. How do I file a complaint about my landlord?
   You can contact the Nebraska Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or seek assistance through small claims court for unresolved disputes.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Student Renters

• Always get your lease and all agreements in writing.
• Know your rights on deposits, repairs, privacy, and eviction notice periods.
• If necessary, the Nebraska County Court resolves official housing disputes and evictions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Rights – Guides, forms, and how to file a complaint
• Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Help – Eviction process, official forms, legal help
• Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services Housing Services
• Check with your university’s housing office or student legal aid for school-specific support

---

1. See Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Help.
2. Details: Nebraska Attorney General – Security Deposit Information.
3. Statutory notice periods: Nebraska Revised Statute 76-1432.

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations