Nevada Move-Out Cleaning Rules: What Renters Must Know

As your Nevada lease comes to an end, understanding your cleaning obligations will help you avoid disputes and increase your chances of a full security deposit refund. Knowing the official cleaning standards for move-out inspections is crucial for every renter in Nevada. This guide breaks down what is expected, where to find reliable government resources, and how to prepare for your final inspection.

What Does Nevada Law Require for Move-Out Cleaning?

Nevada law requires renters to return their rental home in a condition similar to when they moved in, except for reasonable wear and tear. It’s important to recognize what counts as normal wear versus damage or excessive dirt, as this can affect your security deposit return. You’ll find these legal standards outlined in the Nevada Revised Statutes (“NRS”) Chapter 118A - Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings.^[1]

Key Points: Cleaning Responsibilities for Tenants

• Ordinary Cleaning: Remove all personal belongings, dispose of trash, and sweep, vacuum, or mop all floors.
• Appliances: Clean inside and outside of refrigerator, stove/oven, and microwave (if provided).
• Bathrooms: Wipe down sinks, counters, tubs, toilets, and mirrors.
• Fixtures & Surfaces: Dust and clean windowsills, baseboards, and light fixtures.
• Spot Clean Walls: Remove marks and stains where possible without repainting.

Landlords may not deduct for items that are normally expected to deteriorate over time, like minor wall scuffs or faded paint.

What to Expect During a Move-Out Inspection in Nevada

Landlords often conduct a move-out inspection shortly after you leave the unit, sometimes in your presence. This inspection is meant to compare the property’s condition at move-out to its condition at move-in, based on the initial inspection report.

• If the landlord plans to deduct charges from your security deposit for cleaning, they must send you a detailed itemized accounting within 30 days of lease termination (NRS 118A.242).
• It’s a good idea to request to be present during the final inspection.
• Always take date-stamped photos of your cleaned rental as documentation.

Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Forms

Nevada does not have a mandatory statewide inspection form, but some landlords may use a checklist. You have the right to request a copy of any completed inspection form and itemized charges from your landlord.

• Security Deposit Return Itemization Form (Sample): While there is no official statewide form, if your landlord provides an itemization of deductions, you may see it on a form similar to this Sample Move-Out Inspection Checklist (provided by Nevada Housing Division).^[2]
• How It’s Used: This form tracks the property’s condition during move-out. It serves as a key evidence if you dispute charges or deductions. For example, if you feel cleaning charges are excessive, you can compare the move-in and move-out forms to challenge the landlord’s claim.

Understanding "Normal Wear and Tear" vs. Excessive Cleaning

Under NRS 118A, tenants are not responsible for "normal wear and tear." This includes:

• Minor carpet fading
• Small nail holes from hanging photographs
• Sun-faded paint

However, you are responsible for cleaning or repairing damages beyond normal use, such as:

• Heavy stains or burns on carpet
• Pet waste or lingering odors
• Large wall holes or broken fixtures

If Your Security Deposit Is Withheld

If you believe cleaning charges or deductions are unfair, you may take several steps to resolve the situation. Nevada’s primary residential tenancy tribunal is the Las Vegas Justice Court for Clark County residents or your local Justice Court elsewhere.

• Request an itemized statement of deductions in writing.
• Contact Nevada Legal Services for free advice about tenant deposit disputes: Nevada Legal Services.
• If necessary, file a claim for the disputed amount in your local Justice Court’s Small Claims Division.

Action Example: If your landlord withholds your deposit for what you believe are minor, easily cleaned marks, gather move-in/out forms, photos, and communication documentation. Use this to support your case in court or through mediation.

FAQ: Nevada Move-Out Cleaning Rules

1. What cleaning must I do before moving out in Nevada?
   You should remove all personal items, discard trash, clean appliances, wipe surfaces, and leave the property as close as possible to its move-in condition, except for normal wear and tear.
2. Can my landlord charge me for professional cleaning?
   A landlord may only deduct cleaning costs that restore the property to its original condition beyond normal wear and tear, but cannot charge for routine cleaning if you left the unit reasonably clean.
3. How fast must my landlord return my deposit after move-out?
   Nevada law requires landlords to return your security deposit, along with any itemized list of deductions, within 30 days of lease termination.
4. Is there a required inspection checklist form?
   There is no statewide mandatory move-out checklist, but many landlords use their own forms. Ask for a copy at both move-in and move-out.
5. What counts as “normal wear and tear” in Nevada?
   Minor carpet wear, faded paint, and small nail holes from standard use are considered normal and not subject to deduction.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Clean your unit thoroughly but do not worry about issues that are considered normal wear and tear.
• Request to be present and get documentation during move-out inspections, including copies of inspection forms.
• Know your rights: landlords must return your deposit or send an itemized deduction notice within 30 days.

Staying informed and organized is the best way to protect your deposit and peace of mind at the end of your lease.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Official landlord/tenant resources and sample forms.
• Nevada Legal Services – Free legal help for tenants facing disputes.
• Nevada Justice Courts – Where to file small claims for deposit disputes.
• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Complete state landlord-tenant law.

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1. [1] Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A
2. [2] Sample Move-Out Inspection Checklist – Nevada Housing Division

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