Adding a Roommate to a Lease in Nevada: What Renters Need to Know

Sharing your home with a roommate can help with monthly expenses and bring new energy into your space—but if you rent in Nevada, it’s important to follow the right steps to add a new person to your lease. Doing so the right way protects everyone’s rights and avoids problems with your landlord.

Can You Add a Roommate to Your Lease in Nevada?

Nevada state law does not require landlords to allow subletting or adding roommates unless your lease specifically says so. However, many leases allow roommates with the landlord’s written permission. Always review your current lease or rental agreement first to check for specific rules about guests, subletting, and occupancy limits.

Steps to Add a Roommate Legally in Nevada

Here’s how renters can add a roommate to a Nevada lease the right way while staying compliant with Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]:

• Review your lease agreement for clauses about occupants or subletting.
• Get your landlord’s written approval before moving someone in.
• Screen the new roommate (most landlords will require a formal application).
• Sign a lease addendum or a new lease listing all tenants. This ensures both tenants have clear, protected rights and responsibilities.
• Notify your landlord in writing of any changes to occupants.

Following these steps keeps you in compliance with your agreement and Nevada tenant law.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

• Lease Addendum (No Standard NV Form Number): This is a written form signed by all parties to add a new roommate to your existing lease. It updates the list of tenants who are legally responsible. You can request a sample or official addendum from your landlord or property management company.
  • When to use it: Whenever your landlord agrees to allow an additional resident, but not a full new lease.
  • How it works: You and your new roommate fill out and sign the addendum. The landlord also signs to approve the change.
  • See Nevada landlord-tenant information
• Rental Application (No Standard NV Form Number): Your landlord may require the new roommate to complete a rental or tenant application for screening (credit/background check). Use your landlord's official application form.
  • When to use it: Before the new tenant is approved.
  • How it works: The roommate submits the application and any required documentation or fees.
  • Find Nevada rental application advice

Legal Protections and What to Watch Out For

• Do not move in a roommate without landlord approval. This can lead to eviction for unauthorized occupancy under NRS 118A.430 – Unlawful holdover^[2].
• All tenants added with landlord consent share full legal responsibility for the lease (rent, damages, etc.).
• If a roommate leaves, notify your landlord and ask for a lease modification or new addendum.

It’s always best to use written documents and official forms to clarify everyone’s responsibilities.

What If the Landlord Refuses?

Landlords in Nevada can say no to adding roommates if the lease prohibits it or if there are valid reasons (such as occupancy limits or rental history issues). However, landlords can’t discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability. If you’re denied for a reason that feels discriminatory, contact the Nevada Equal Rights Commission for help.

Where to Go for Disputes or Questions

In Nevada, rental disputes and eviction claims are handled by the Justice Court in your local county. For formal disputes, you may need to file an action at Justice Court.

1. Can a landlord charge extra rent or a fee for a new roommate?
   Yes, in Nevada, a landlord may request an increased rent or a one-time fee to cover screening and administrative costs. However, these terms must be clearly outlined and agreed upon in writing.
2. What happens if I move in a roommate without my landlord’s approval?
   If you add a roommate without proper authorization, you may be in violation of your lease, and your landlord could begin eviction proceedings for an unauthorized occupant.
3. Is there a legal maximum number of people for my rental?
   Occupancy limits are typically set by local housing codes and by the lease agreement. A common standard is two people per bedroom, but always check your rental contract and county regulations.
4. How do I remove a roommate from my lease in Nevada?
   You’ll need to notify your landlord in writing and sign a new lease or lease addendum with the remaining tenants. Make sure both you and your departing roommate agree in writing.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Always get written landlord approval before adding a roommate.
• Use a signed lease addendum or new lease for legal protection.
• Keep documentation and follow official procedures to avoid disputes.

These practices help create a clear, safe, and beneficial living situation for everyone involved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Landlord-Tenant Information
• Nevada Justice Courts – Evictions and Housing Disputes
• Nevada Equal Rights Commission – Discrimination Complaints
• Nevada Legal Services – Free Tenant Advice & Assistance

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. NRS 118A.430 – Eviction for Holdover/Unauthorized Occupancy

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