Key Lease Addendums for Nevada Renters to Review

Signing or renewing a lease in Nevada? Lease addendums—attachments that modify or clarify your rental agreement—can significantly affect your rights and responsibilities. Knowing which addendums commonly appear, and what to look out for, is crucial before agreeing to any rental terms. Nevada law sets specific guidelines about what's allowed in a rental contract, so understanding these documents will help you avoid unpleasant surprises later.

What Is a Lease Addendum?

A lease addendum is a written document added to your lease. It covers separate terms not detailed in the main agreement, such as rules for pets, parking, smoking, or repairs. Addendums are legally binding if both you and your landlord sign them.

Lease Addendums Nevada Tenants Commonly Encounter

Landlords in Nevada may use different addendums based on their property type, insurance or HOA rules. Below are the most common:

• Pet Addendum: Sets conditions for keeping pets, such as deposits, types, size limits, and responsibilities for damages.
• Maintenance or Repair Addendum: Outlines who is responsible for specific repairs and how to report maintenance needs.
• Utility Addendum: Explains how utilities (water, power, trash) are billed and who pays.
• Late Fee or Payment Plan Addendum: Specifies late fee amounts, how they're assessed, and possible payment arrangements.
• Smoking or Marijuana Addendum: Details whether smoking (including cannabis) is allowed on the property.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Required for properties built before 1978. Lists known lead paint hazards and must be given to new tenants (see EPA's guideline).
• Mold Addendum: Explains tenant and landlord responsibilities for mold prevention and remediation.

Always read every addendum, as they may affect deposits, ability to renew, or make you responsible for extra costs.

Important Legal Requirements for Lease Addendums in Nevada

All lease clauses and addendums must comply with Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A (Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings)¹. Addendums may not override your basic rights, for example:

• Landlords cannot make you responsible for repairs unless allowed by law.
• You cannot be charged “punitive” fees not permitted under state statutes.
• Addendums requiring you to waive your right to basic services or fair notice are not enforceable.

The Nevada Justice Court handles most landlord-tenant disputes. Always request a copy of any addendum before signing.

Key Official Forms for Lease Addendums in Nevada

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Required Form)
  Form: EPA's "Lead Warning Statement and Disclosure" (official sample)
  When it's used: If you're renting a property built before 1978, your landlord must give you this addendum and any information about known lead paint hazards before you sign. You must receive this form even if the landlord has no knowledge of lead hazards.
• Utilities Disclosure Addendum
  No universal form; terms must be spelled out as required by NRS 118A.300
  When it's used: If utilities are not included in rent and must be paid separately, the landlord should provide a written statement showing how charges are calculated. Request this in writing as an addendum if it's not included in your lease.
• Other Addendums (e.g., No Smoking, Mold)
  No state-mandated forms; must follow lease and law requirements. Always make sure you get these in writing and signed by both parties.

Tips for Nevada Renters: Reviewing and Negotiating Lease Addendums

• Ask for all addendums in advance so you can review them.
• Do not sign any addendum that appears illegal or extreme; ask questions if unsure.
• You can try to negotiate unfair terms or ask for clarifications.
• Keep signed copies of every page for your records.

In summary, stay alert to any lease addendums and verify they comply with your rights under Nevada law.

FAQ: Nevada Lease Addendums and Your Rights

1. Can my landlord add new addendums mid-lease in Nevada?
   In most cases, lease addendums can only be added if both you and your landlord agree and sign the changes. Otherwise, changes typically must wait until renewal.
2. Are all addendums legally binding in Nevada?
   Yes, if they're included in the signed agreement and don't conflict with state law. Addendums that violate your rights under NRS Chapter 118A are not enforceable.
3. What do I do if I believe an addendum is unfair or illegal?
   Do not sign. Request clarification in writing from your landlord. If the issue isn't resolved, contact the Nevada Justice Court or a tenant rights group.
4. Is a pet deposit refundable in Nevada if the pet addendum is followed?
   In most cases, yes, unless the pet caused damages beyond normal wear and tear. The deposit refund and rules should be specified in your pet addendum.
5. Do I need to sign a mold disclosure for a Nevada rental?
   There is no universal Nevada form, but if your landlord includes a mold addendum, you should only sign if you agree it's accurate and lawful.

Conclusion: What Nevada Renters Should Remember

• Always review and understand all lease addendums before signing.
• Any addendum must follow Nevada landlord-tenant law and can't take away your basic rights.
• Ask for written addendums and keep full copies for your own protection.

Staying informed about how addendums affect your lease will help protect your rights and prevent issues in your Nevada rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Justice Court Landlord-Tenant Resources — official guidance on disputes, notices, and tenant rights.
• Nevada Housing Division — rental assistance and housing programs.
• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A — complete landlord-tenant law for dwellings.
• EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rules — required forms and information for older rentals.

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A (Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings)
2. Nevada Justice Court - Landlord/Tenant Information

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