Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Nevada Rentals?

Many Nevada renters are concerned about their privacy, especially regarding hidden cameras in their apartments or rental homes. Understanding your rights under Nevada law is key to protecting your living space. This guide explains where cameras are allowed or prohibited, and what renters can do if they suspect their privacy has been invaded.

Your Right to Privacy in Nevada Rentals

Nevada law emphasizes a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment and privacy in their home. While landlords have some rights to monitor and maintain their property, state and federal laws limit the use of surveillance devices inside rental units.

• Inside your rental: Installing hidden cameras or any recording device by your landlord is generally not permitted without your clear consent.
• Common areas: Landlords may use visible cameras in common spaces (lobbies, hallways), but these should not record audio without warning and can’t be in private places like bathrooms or bedrooms.
• Audio recording: In Nevada, recording audio of private conversations without consent is illegal, including in rental situations.

Learn more about the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for your privacy rights.

What Does Nevada Law Say About Hidden Cameras?

Nevada’s surveillance and privacy laws make it a crime to install any device intended to record, observe, or listen to anyone inside a private place without their knowledge and consent. For renters, this means:

• Landlords cannot place cameras (hidden or visible) inside your rental unit’s private areas.
• It is illegal for anyone—including landlords—to record video or audio in areas where tenants expect privacy, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces.
• Landlords must give notice before entering your unit, with limited exceptions for emergencies. They must also have a valid reason, according to NRS 118A.330.

If a landlord has installed a camera inside your personal living space without consent, they may be violating both state law and your lease agreement.

Visible Security Cameras in Common Areas

Visible security cameras are generally allowed in shared spaces outside your unit, such as hallways or building entrances. However, these should not target windows or doors to individual apartments so that activity inside your home isn’t being monitored.

What To Do If You Find a Hidden Camera

If you discover a surveillance device in your rental, don’t tamper with it right away. Follow these steps to protect your rights:

• Take clear photos of the device in its location.
• Notify your landlord in writing, keeping a copy for your records.
• If you feel your privacy is unlawfully invaded, consider contacting local law enforcement and filing a complaint with the appropriate agency.
• File a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division.

If you choose to break your lease due to privacy concerns, seek legal advice first and review the Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (Nevada Housing Division - Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form) to report issues officially.

Official Forms for Renters in Nevada

• Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  Used to file an official complaint for violations such as illegal surveillance or privacy violations. To submit:
  • Download from the Nevada Housing Division
  • Fill out the form, including details of the incident, and submit as instructed
  Example: A renter discovers a camera hidden in their living room and wants to report the invasion of privacy.

Steps to Report a Hidden Camera in a Rental

This process should be practical and straightforward if you believe your privacy rights have been violated.

• Secure evidence by taking photos or videos of the surveillance device.
• Write a dated letter or email to your landlord describing the situation and asking for an explanation or removal.
• Use official forms if your concern is not addressed. File a complaint via the Nevada Housing Division.
• If needed, contact local police and provide them with your documentation.

FAQ: Hidden Cameras and Renter Privacy in Nevada

1. Can my landlord put security cameras inside my apartment in Nevada?
   No. Landlords may not install cameras—hidden or visible—inside private areas of a rental unit without the tenant’s consent. This violates Nevada privacy laws and the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
2. Are landlords allowed to use cameras in hallways or outside the building?
   Generally yes, as long as these cameras are in common or public areas and not aimed into private residences. Audio recording is still limited by law.
3. What should I do if I discover a hidden camera inside my rental?
   Document the device, notify your landlord in writing, and consider contacting the Nevada Housing Division or law enforcement for further investigation.
4. What government agency handles rental housing disputes in Nevada?
   The Nevada Housing Division oversees residential tenancies and landlord-tenant complaints in Nevada.
5. Is it legal for a landlord to record audio in my rental?
   No. Recording audio in your private home without consent is illegal under Nevada law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Hidden cameras inside your Nevada rental without your consent are illegal.
• Visible cameras may be allowed in common areas, but never in private spaces.
• Document any issue, communicate with your landlord, and use official resources to protect your privacy rights.

Understanding and acting on your privacy rights can help maintain your comfort and security at home.

Need Help? Resources for Nevada Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Landlord-Tenant Hotline: For questions or to file a complaint (775) 684-2818
• Nevada Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form: Download and submit for privacy or surveillance issues
• Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Detailed summary of tenant and landlord rights
• Nevada Laws on Eavesdropping and Surveillance: Details on video/audio recording laws

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A (Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)
2. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 200.650 (Eavesdropping and Surveillance)
3. Nevada Housing Division – Landlord-Tenant Information
4. Nevada Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form

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