Can my landlord make me leave if my apartment is damaged by a storm?

Your landlord cannot force you to leave unless the property is unsafe or condemned, or repairs make it truly unlivable. In these cases, you may be entitled to rent reductions or to end your lease.

Am I responsible for repairs due to storm or flood damage?

Landlords are typically responsible for damage affecting habitability. As a renter, you must report issues promptly and protect your belongings.

Is my landlord required to provide temporary housing after a flood?

Nebraska law does not require landlords to provide alternative accommodation, but you do not need to pay rent for an uninhabitable home, and you may end your lease if repairs are not made.

What official forms should I use to report or act on storm damage?

Use a Notice of Termination or file a Small Claims Complaint if you need to formally address unaddressed storm or flood damage.

Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Nebraska?

Residential tenancy disputes are usually handled by county and district courts in Nebraska. There is no dedicated housing tribunal.

Nebraska Renters’ Storm and Flood Emergency Rights

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Nebraska published June 21, 2025

Storms and floods can threaten your safety and leave renters uncertain about their legal protections or responsibilities. In Nebraska, specific laws outline what renters should expect during emergencies and what steps they can take if their rental home is damaged. This guide will help Nebraska renters understand their rights, responsibilities, and vital emergency actions during storm or flood events.

Your Rights as a Renter During Storms and Floods

The Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects renters by requiring landlords to keep rental properties safe, habitable, and compliant with all housing codes—even during natural disasters.^[1]

Right to a Habitable Home: Even after storms or floods, you are entitled to a rental unit that is safe, sanitary, and in good repair.
Timely Repairs: Landlords must make necessary repairs promptly after any storm or flood damage.
Emergency Protections: If your home becomes unsafe, specific rules allow for relocation or lease termination without penalty.

Responsibilities of Landlords and Renters

Both renters and landlords have specific duties after severe weather:

Landlords: Must address structural damage, plumbing, HVAC, and mold issues caused by storms or flooding.
Renters: Should notify landlords in writing of damage as soon as possible and take reasonable steps to prevent further harm, like shutting off water if pipes burst.

What to Do If Your Rental Is Damaged by a Storm or Flood

Document Damage: Take photos or videos and keep any communication with your landlord.
Notify Your Landlord: Use written notice (email, letter) to report the problem. Include dates, times, and a clear description.
Allow Access for Repairs: Nebraska law gives landlords the right to enter for emergency repairs after reasonable notice (at least 24 hours for non-emergencies).^[1]
Contact Local Authorities if Needed: If your landlord doesn't respond, reach out to your city building inspector or health department.

If Your Home Becomes Uninhabitable

If storm or flood damage makes the unit unlivable, you may have the right to terminate your lease early or withhold rent until repairs are made. Always provide written notice.

Partial Destruction: If only part of the property is damaged, and you can still live safely there, you may ask for a rent reduction matching the unusable space.
Total Destruction: If the rental is completely unsafe or destroyed, you may end your lease and stop paying rent (with written notice).

Filing a Complaint or Taking Legal Action

Disputes unresolved after storms or floods—such as if a landlord refuses repairs—can be brought to the Nebraska Small Claims Court or your local District Court. There isn’t a dedicated housing tribunal in Nebraska, but courts handle residential tenancy matters, including emergencies.

Key Official Forms for Nebraska Renters

Notice of Termination of Tenancy (no official number): Used by renters to formally end their lease if the unit is uninhabitable due to storm or flood damage.
How to use: After documenting severe, unaddressed damage, give your landlord written notice of termination and keep a copy.
Sample Nebraska Notice of Termination of Lease
Small Claims Complaint (DC 4:1): Use if you need damages from your landlord (such as loss of property or security deposit due to storm/flood negligence).
How to use: Fill out this form and file it at the county court if the landlord refuses appropriate repairs or compensation.
Nebraska Small Claims Complaint Form

Both forms should be delivered or filed at your local court, and forms are available from the Nebraska Judicial Branch.

FAQ: Nebraska Renters’ Rights During Storm and Flood Emergencies

Can my landlord make me leave if my apartment is damaged by a storm?
Your landlord cannot force you to leave unless the property is unsafe or ordered by local authorities. If major repairs are needed, you may need to vacate temporarily for your own safety, but you may be entitled to rent reductions or lease termination.
Am I responsible for repairs due to storm or flood damage?
Landlords are generally responsible for repairing damage from storms and floods affecting habitability, but you must report the damage promptly and care for your personal property.
Is my landlord required to provide another place for me to stay?
While Nebraska law does not require landlords to provide alternative accommodations, you do not have to pay rent for an uninhabitable unit after storms or floods. You may also end your lease if major repairs are not completed quickly.
What if I need emergency repairs right away?
If you cannot reach your landlord, contact your local building inspector or health department. For urgent safety hazards, call emergency services.
Where can I get help if my landlord does not respond?
You can seek assistance or file a complaint through the Nebraska court system, or contact local tenant support agencies for advice.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

You're entitled to a safe and habitable home, even after storms or floods.
Notify your landlord in writing right away about any damage and use official forms to protect your rights.
If your rental becomes uninhabitable, you have the right to terminate your lease and seek legal remedies.

Understanding your emergency rights can help you stay safe and protected when severe weather strikes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Nebraska Supreme Court – Tenant Self Help Resources: Information and forms for renters.
Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services – Housing and Homelessness: Assistance with temporary housing and emergencies.
Legal Aid of Nebraska: Free legal assistance for eligible renters.
For code or safety enforcement, contact your city or county building inspector’s office.