Nevada Landlord Repair Timeframes: Tenant Rights Explained

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Nevada and something breaks—like the heat, plumbing, or a necessary appliance—you might wonder: how long does your landlord have to fix it? Nevada law offers strong protections for renters to ensure their homes stay safe, healthy, and livable, but the timing requirements depend on the severity of the issue and the steps you take to notify your landlord.

Understanding Nevada’s Maintenance and Repair Laws

Under Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords are required to keep rental units in habitable condition. This means meeting health, safety, and maintenance standards, such as keeping plumbing, heating, and appliances in working order.¹

How Long Does a Landlord Have to Make Repairs?

When you notify your landlord in writing about an important repair, Nevada law generally allows:

• 14 days for the landlord to start and complete the repair after receiving your written notice for most habitability issues.
• 48 hours if the repair involves an essential service like heat, running water, hot water, electricity, gas, or air conditioning (if provided)—see NRS 118A.380.²

If the landlord does not act within these timeframes, you may have legal options to compel repairs or seek other remedies.

Types of Repairs Covered

Landlords must fix “habitability” problems, including:

• Plumbing, heating, air conditioning
• Water leaks and damage
• Unsafe electrical wiring
• Pest infestations
• Broken doors/windows that affect safety

Cosmetic issues (like scuffed paint) are generally not covered unless they become a safety or health concern.

How to Request Repairs in Nevada

To start the repair clock, you must notify your landlord in writing. Keep a dated copy of your notice for your records. Sample letters and forms are often provided by your local Nevada Housing Division or legal aid offices.

If Repairs Aren’t Made: What Can You Do?

If the landlord doesn’t begin repairs in the legal timeframe after your notice, you may:

• Contact the local housing or code enforcement office
• File a complaint with the county code enforcement office
• Use Nevada’s official forms to notify the landlord of your next planned action (see below)
• Apply to court or small claims tribunal for resolution

Official Nevada Repair Notice Forms

• Nevada 14-Day Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent – Use this if the landlord hasn’t made repairs within 14 days of your written request and the issue affects habitability. This form notifies the landlord you will withhold rent or arrange repairs yourself. Example: Your heater breaks in January, you send written notice, and it isn’t fixed; this form must be completed and sent before taking further action.
  Get the Notice of Withholding Rent Form (Sample in Legislation)
• Nevada 48-Hour Notice to Remedy Essential Services – For urgent issues like no heat or water, this form gives the landlord 48 hours to restore service after your written notice.
  See Essential Services Notice Procedure

Always use official forms and deliver notices via a method you can prove (certified mail, hand delivery with a witness, or email with read receipt).

Who Handles Disputes in Nevada?

The Civil Law Self-Help Center (part of the Eighth Judicial District Court in Clark County) assists with tenant-landlord disputes, including repairs. Renters across Nevada can also contact their local Justice Court.

FAQ: Nevada Landlord Repairs

1. How quickly does a landlord have to fix heating or hot water in Nevada?
   For loss of essential services like heating or hot water, your landlord must fix the issue within 48 hours after receiving your written notice.
2. What if my landlord refuses to respond to repair requests?
   If your landlord doesn’t respond within 14 days (or 48 hours for essential services), you may be permitted to withhold a portion of your rent, make the repair and deduct the cost, or file a complaint. Always use written notices and official forms.
3. Do I have to use a specific form to request repairs?
   Written notification is required, but you don’t have to use a specific form. However, using the official 14-Day or 48-Hour Notice forms helps clarify your rights and next steps if the repair isn’t made.
4. Can I repair and deduct from rent if the landlord fails to act?
   Yes, Nevada law allows you to arrange repairs and deduct the reasonable cost (not more than one month’s rent), but only after proper notice and following specific legal steps.
5. What happens if I withhold rent illegally?
   Withholding rent without proper notice or legal procedure can result in eviction. Always follow the steps in Nevada law and use written communication.

Conclusion: What Nevada Renters Should Remember

• Written notice starts legal repair timelines: 14 days for most repairs, 48 hours for essential services.
• Always use official or documented written notices and keep records.
• If repairs aren’t made, renters have options—but must follow Nevada procedure to avoid legal issues.

By understanding your repair rights and following the right steps, you can help ensure your Nevada rental stays safe and livable.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Guidance, renters’ rights, and resources
• Civil Law Self-Help Center (Eighth Judicial District Court) – Official tribunal for rental disputes in Clark County
• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant Law
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada – Free tenant legal help

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. NRS 118A.380 – Essential Services; Remedies; Procedure

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