Nevada Landlord Repair Responsibilities: Renters’ Guide

Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Nevada published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Nevada

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Nevada, it’s important to know what repairs your landlord is legally required to take care of. Nevada law sets clear rules to make sure rental properties are safe, livable, and in good repair. This article explains your rights, key definitions, and steps you can take if repairs aren’t made on time, based on official Nevada statutes.

What Repairs Are Landlords Responsible For in Nevada?

Under Nevada law, landlords must keep their rental properties "habitable," which means safe and healthy to live in. The law says landlords must:

  • Maintain plumbing, heating, electrical, and air conditioning in good working order
  • Provide working locks, doors, and windows
  • Ensure running water, hot water, and adequate heating
  • Address infestations of pests, like rodents or insects
  • Repair any issues affecting your health or safety

These rules are found in the Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act[1].

What is "Habitability"?

"Habitability" means your rental must meet basic standards for safety, cleanliness, and livability. If an issue makes your home uninhabitable—such as broken plumbing, no heat in winter, or major leaks—your landlord must fix it promptly.

If a needed repair affects your health or safety, Nevada law requires your landlord to respond quickly—usually within 14 days of written notice, or even sooner if the issue is urgent.

How to Request Repairs from Your Landlord

If something in your rental needs fixing, follow these steps:

  • Tell your landlord in writing, describing the problem and requesting repair.
  • Keep a copy of your request for your records (email, letter, or the official Notice of Habitability Defect (NRS 118A.355) form).
  • Allow your landlord "a reasonable time," usually 14 days, to make the repair.
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What If Repairs Are Not Made?

If your landlord doesn’t fix a major problem that’s affecting your health or safety within the required legal timeframe, you have options:

  • File a complaint with the state or local housing authority.
  • Withhold rent or make the repair yourself (called "repair and deduct"), but never do this without first following official notice procedures.
  • Request a court order or file a claim with the appropriate tribunal.

For full details, see NRS 118A.355: Failure to Maintain Habitability—Notice and Remedies[1].

Official Forms for Nevada Renters

  • Notice of Habitability Defect (NRS 118A.355)
    • Use: If your apartment or home has issues making it unfit to live in (e.g., leaking pipes, no heat), complete this notice and deliver it to your landlord to start the repair timeline.
    • Download the official form and instructions
    • Example: If your heater stops working in the middle of winter, fill out and submit this form to your landlord to trigger their 14-day (or faster) repair obligation.

Who Oversees Rental Housing Issues in Nevada?

The Nevada Justice Court – Landlord-Tenant Division handles tenant-landlord disputes, including repair complaints and habitability claims. Renters can file a complaint or request a hearing for unresolved maintenance issues.

Your Rights Under Nevada Law

  • You must continue to pay rent during the repair period (unless a court says otherwise)
  • You cannot be evicted or retaliated against for reporting habitability problems
  • If you are forced to leave due to unsafe conditions not fixed promptly, you may have the right to end your lease early without penalty
If repairs aren’t made, always keep records and send requests in writing. This protects your rights and helps if you need to go to court.

FAQ: Nevada Landlord Repair Rules

  1. How long does a landlord have to make repairs in Nevada?
    Typically, landlords have 14 days after receiving written notice to address non-urgent repairs affecting health and safety. For urgent issues (like no heat in winter), repairs may need to be completed sooner.
  2. Can a tenant withhold rent if repairs are not made?
    Only after following official notice requirements and deadlines. Withholding rent without legal process can lead to eviction. Always use the proper forms and seek legal advice if unsure.
  3. What can a renter do if repairs are not made on time?
    You can file a complaint with the Justice Court, request a court order, or consider "repair and deduct" (do repairs yourself and deduct costs from rent)—but only after meeting all legal notice requirements.
  4. Who should tenants contact for unresolved maintenance issues?
    For unresolved complaints, contact the Nevada Justice Court’s Landlord-Tenant Division or your local housing authority.
  5. Do landlords have to provide air conditioning in Nevada?
    Yes. Nevada law says air conditioning is considered an essential service, and landlords must keep it in good working order.

Key Takeaways

  • Nevada landlords are legally required to make essential repairs and maintain habitable conditions
  • Always give written notice—using the official Notice of Habitability Defect form—to start the repair process
  • If repairs are not made, renters can file a complaint with Nevada Justice Court’s Landlord-Tenant Division

Knowing your repair rights helps keep your rental safe and comfortable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. [1] Full text: Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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