Nebraska Rental Health Codes: Minimum Standards for Renters

Nebraska requires all rental properties to meet minimum housing health standards to protect tenants’ safety and well-being. If you are a renter in Nebraska and are worried about mold, ventilation, heating, or other health and safety issues, it’s important to know your rights and the process for getting problems resolved. This guide explains current state health standards, relevant legislation, and practical steps for reporting and addressing unsafe living conditions.

Understanding Minimum Housing Health Codes in Nebraska

The Nebraska Minimum Housing Standards set out key requirements for rental homes, aiming to ensure every unit is safe, clean, and habitable. The legislation that covers these requirements is the Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, along with local city or county codes.

What Rental Properties Must Provide

By law, Nebraska landlords must:

• Supply running hot and cold water, heating, and electricity
• Keep the premises free from hazardous conditions (broken stairs, holes, leaks, etc.)
• Maintain clean and sanitary common areas
• Remove garbage and provide adequate garbage facilities
• Ensure all structural components (roof, floors, walls) remain in good repair
• Control insect and rodent infestations
• Keep all plumbing, heating, and electrical systems functioning

These requirements apply even if your rental agreement doesn’t mention them. Local building or public health departments may set stricter rules in your area.

Your Rights If Standards Are Not Met

If your landlord fails to meet the minimum standards, Nebraska law gives you options. You may:

• Give written notice to your landlord about the problem
• Request that the issue be fixed within 14 days (unless urgent)
• Contact your local housing inspector or health department if repairs are not made
• File a complaint with the Nebraska court system if issues persist

Tip: Always keep copies of all written communications and photographs to support your case if further action is needed.

Official Complaint Process: Forms and Steps

There are no statewide Nebraska-specific forms for filing a health code complaint. Most renters begin by submitting a written request for repairs to their landlord. If needed, complaint forms may be filed with your local city or county housing authority.

• Form: Written Repair Request (no official form number)
  Usage: Use this for documenting your complaint. Send it to your landlord with details (what’s wrong, when you expect it fixed, and how to reach you). If the problem isn’t fixed within 14 days, you may file a formal complaint with your local agency.
  Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (Attorney General): This form can be submitted if the problem remains unresolved.

If you need to pursue repairs or legal action, be sure to use your local housing codes and court procedures. The Nebraska Judicial Branch - Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center provides step-by-step instructions and forms for renters.

Enforcement and the Relevant Tribunal

Nebraska does not have a standalone residential tenancy tribunal. Disputes about health and safety or minimum housing codes are usually handled through the Nebraska Judicial Branch (County Court). The court resolves issues under the Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Action Steps for Renters

Here’s how Nebraska renters can address health and safety issues in their homes:

• Document issues with clear photos and keep copies of relevant communications
• Notify your landlord in writing and give them at least 14 days to remedy (unless it’s an emergency)
• If no action is taken, file a complaint with your local housing authority or county court
• Consider contacting the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office for guidance or mediation

Taking these steps helps protect your right to a safe and healthy home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if my landlord doesn’t fix a health hazard?
   If your landlord doesn’t make repairs after you provide written notice, you may contact your local housing inspector, file a complaint form with the Attorney General, or start a case in County Court.
2. Who do I contact for unsafe rental conditions in Nebraska?
   You should first contact your landlord in writing, then your local housing authority or Nebraska Attorney General’s Office if the issue isn’t resolved.
3. How much time does my landlord have to address repairs?
   Landlords generally have 14 days to begin repairs after receiving your written notice, unless the problem creates an immediate danger.
4. Does Nebraska law cover rodent and bug infestations?
   Yes. The landlord must maintain habitability by dealing with infestations unless you caused the problem through neglect or lack of cleanliness.
5. Is there a specific agency overseeing landlord-tenant disputes?
   Disputes over rental health standards are handled by the Nebraska County Court under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

• Nebraska requires landlords to provide safe, healthy, and habitable rental units.
• Document issues, notify your landlord in writing, and use official complaint channels if repairs are not made.
• The Nebraska County Court and Attorney General’s Office provide support for resolving health and safety disputes.

Knowing your rights and the steps to take helps you maintain a safe and secure rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center: Forms, instructions, and court guidance
• Nebraska Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Information: Mediation and complaints
• HUD Nebraska – Renting Resources
• Local City or County Health Department: Contact info available through city or county government websites for rental inspections and health code complaints

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1. Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Nebraska Minimum Housing Standards (DHHS)
3. Nebraska Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help Center
4. Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form, Nebraska Attorney General

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