Can Nevada Landlords Charge for Trash and Recycling?

Many renters in Nevada wonder whether landlords can legally require them to pay separately for trash and recycling services. Understanding who is responsible for these utility costs can help you protect your rights and avoid billing disputes. This guide explains what Nevada law says about trash and recycling charges, how your lease terms affect utility payment, and what to do if there's a disagreement.

Who Pays for Trash and Recycling in Nevada?

Under Nevada law, landlords and tenants can agree on who pays for different utilities and services—including trash and recycling—through the rental agreement. There is no statewide law that strictly requires the landlord to pay or prohibits them from charging tenants for these services. What matters most is what your rental contract (lease) says.

• If your lease states the landlord covers trash/recycling, they cannot shift that cost to you during your tenancy.
• If your lease makes tenants responsible for utilities, you may be required to pay for trash and recycling as a separate charge or directly to the service provider.

Relevant Nevada Legislation

Your rights and responsibilities are defined primarily under the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings.¹ Section 118A.320 states that lease agreements should specify who is responsible for utility charges, such as trash collection. It is important to review your lease language carefully and request clarification in writing if needed.

What Should Be Included in Your Lease?

According to the law, your lease should clearly state whether you or the landlord are responsible for paying for trash and recycling. Important details include:

• A breakdown of all utilities and services the tenant must pay for
• How and when these charges are billed (monthly, quarterly, etc.)
• How charges are calculated if services are shared in a multi-unit building
• Whether these charges can change during your tenancy or only at renewal

If your lease does not say who pays for trash and recycling, and you’re being charged unexpectedly, consider speaking with your landlord and documenting the conversation in writing for your records.

Can Landlords Change Utility Charges During Your Lease?

Generally, landlords cannot increase or introduce new trash or recycling charges in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless your lease allows for it. Changes to utility payment obligations usually must wait until the lease is renewed or renegotiated, except where permitted by your agreement.

Disputes about Trash and Recycling Charges

If you believe you are being unfairly charged or billed incorrectly:

• Review your lease's utility clause carefully
• Request a written explanation from your landlord if charges are unclear or seem excessive
• Keep all documentation and billing statements related to the dispute

If you cannot resolve the issue directly, you may file a complaint or seek mediation through the Nevada Housing Division or the appropriate court. If you plan to file a formal complaint about landlord utility charges, you can use the "Tenant Complaint Form" provided by the Nevada Real Estate Division. This form helps tenants document and report issues with their landlord, including improper billing of utilities.

Official Tribunal for Nevada Rental Issues

The primary authority handling landlord-tenant disputes is the Nevada Real Estate Division, Ombudsman for Owners in Common-Interest Communities and Condominium Hotels. For court actions, the Nevada Courts also oversee unresolved legal cases involving tenancies.

Relevant Official Forms

• Tenant Complaint Form – Nevada Real Estate Division
  Access the Tenant Complaint Form
  Use this form if you want to report an issue or file a complaint about a landlord’s handling of trash and recycling charges or other tenancy disputes. Fill out the form, attach documentation, and submit it as described on the form instructions.

FAQ: Trash and Recycling Charges for Nevada Renters

1. Can my landlord start charging me separately for trash halfway through my lease?
   Not unless your lease specifically allows for such changes during the lease term. In general, new or increased charges must wait until you sign a new lease or extension.
2. What if my lease is silent about trash and recycling payments?
   If your lease does not say who pays, the responsibility usually remains with the landlord. However, it is wise to ask for clarification and keep any responses in writing.
3. Can my landlord charge more than the city charges for trash collection?
   Landlords cannot make a profit on utility pass-throughs. They may only charge you the actual amount billed by the service provider unless otherwise agreed.
4. Who do I contact if I think my landlord is overcharging me for recycling?
   You may file a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division using the official Tenant Complaint Form and can seek further support from local legal aid organizations.
5. Are there protections against landlords disconnecting trash service?
   Landlords cannot shut off essential services in retaliation or as an eviction method. Such actions may violate Nevada law.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Review your lease to understand your trash and recycling payment obligations.
• Disputes over utility billing can be reported to the Nevada Real Estate Division.
• If a charge is not listed in your lease, ask for clarification in writing and keep a record of all communications.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Real Estate Division – Landlord/Tenant Resources – Information and complaint options.
• Tenant Complaint Form – Use this official document to report disputes including trash and recycling billing.
• Nevada Housing Division – Assistance with rental housing laws and programs.
• Nevada Courts – For legal filings and unresolved disputes.

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings
2. Nevada Real Estate Division – Landlord/Tenant Resources

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