Nevada Rent Control: History, Efforts, and Renter Rights

Renters in Nevada have seen rental prices rise steadily over the last decade, sparking ongoing debates about rent control. While some states have enacted strong protections and rent regulation, Nevada’s history with rent control has been distinctive, and laws continue to evolve. Understanding this history and your rights as a Nevada renter is essential, especially if you’re concerned about rent increases or possible eviction.

Background: Rent Control and Rent Stabilization in Nevada

Rent control refers to laws that limit how much landlords can increase rent each year, while rent stabilization often includes additional protections for tenants facing eviction or significant rent hikes. Unlike some other states, Nevada has not adopted statewide rent control. Instead, it has seen local efforts and legislative campaigns over the years, with rules primarily governed by the Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Historic Campaigns and Legislative Efforts

Throughout the 2000s, tenants and advocates in cities like Las Vegas, Reno, and North Las Vegas launched campaigns for local rent control, especially as housing affordability declined. Despite growing support, Nevada law generally prohibits local governments from creating rent control ordinances. In 2023, the City of North Las Vegas discussed a rent stabilization ordinance, but state law remained a barrier.^[2]

• State law (NRS 118A.510): Prevents local governments from passing laws that would "regulate the amount of rent charged" for private residential property.
• Attempts at legislative change: Several bills have been introduced in the Nevada State Legislature (such as Assembly Bill 298 in 2023) to enable limited rent control in specific circumstances, but none have become law.^[3]
• Eviction protection expansions: While rent control has not passed, laws have expanded notice requirements for rent increases and created limits on no-cause evictions—especially for seniors and people with disabilities.

Current Renter Protections

Nevada renters do not currently have rent control. However, key protections and regulations do apply:

• Notice Requirement for Rent Increases: Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice to increase rent for month-to-month tenancies per NRS 118A.300.
• Eviction Process: Nevada law requires landlords to follow a formal eviction process, including providing specific types of notice. The process is overseen by the Nevada Summary Eviction process, handled through Justice Courts in each county.
• Rental Assistance: Programs in counties like Clark and Washoe may provide emergency help if you’re facing eviction due to unpaid rent. Visit the Nevada Housing Division for details.

Important Forms and When to Use Them

• 5-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
  Official Clark County 5-Day Notice (PDF)
  When used: If you receive this notice, your landlord alleges unpaid rent. You have five judicial days to pay the rent or move out before an eviction can proceed.
  Renter Example: You miss May’s rent and get this notice posted on your door. Pay the overdue amount or file a response with the court within five business days to avoid eviction.
• Answer to Summary Eviction
  Summary Eviction Answer Form (No form number; county specific)
  When used: File this form with the court if you want to contest the eviction, such as if the notice is improper or you have already paid rent.
  Renter Example: If you have paid rent or believe the eviction notice was issued in error, you use this form to explain your circumstances to the court.
• Tenant’s Complaint Regarding Unlawful Practices
  Nevada Housing Division – Complaint Form (online form)
  When used: File this if you believe your landlord has violated the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (such as failing to provide adequate notice for a rent increase).

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes in Nevada?

Residential tenancy matters, including evictions and rent-related disputes, are handled by the Justice Courts of Nevada. For guidance and forms, visit the Civil Law Self-Help Center for Clark County or the Washoe County Eviction Forms page.

What Can Nevada Renters Do About Rent Increases?

While there is no current rent cap, renters have a few key steps they can take:

• Landlords must provide proper written notice before increasing your rent. If they don’t, you can file a complaint or contest an improper notice in Justice Court.
• Seek rental assistance if facing sudden or unaffordable increases that may lead to eviction.
• Stay informed about Nevada rental laws and future campaigns, as advocacy efforts continue to seek greater protections for renters.

FAQ: Nevada Rent Control and Renter Rights

1. Does Nevada have rent control or rent stabilization?
   No, Nevada currently does not have statewide or local rent control. State law prohibits local governments from passing their own rent control measures.
2. How much can my landlord raise my rent?
   There is no cap on how much rent can be increased, but landlords must give at least 60 days’ written notice for rent hikes on month-to-month leases.
3. Can I contest a rent increase?
   If proper notice was not given or you suspect discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Nevada Housing Division or respond through the Justice Court system.
4. How do I respond if I receive an eviction notice after a rent increase?
   You must file an "Answer to Summary Eviction" form with the Justice Court within the deadline specified on your notice.
5. Where can I get help with rental or eviction issues?
   Consult your local Justice Court Self-Help Center, or contact the Nevada Housing Division for official guidance and resources.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• No statewide or local rent control currently exists in Nevada.
• Renters are entitled to at least 60 days’ notice before rent increases on month-to-month leases.
• Justice Courts handle most tenant-landlord disputes, including evictions and improper notices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division: Renters’ rights, complaint forms, and state guidance.
• Civil Law Self-Help Center (Clark County): How to handle eviction and rent increase disputes.
• Washoe County Self-Help Center: Forms and resources for Reno/Sparks area renters.
• State of Nevada Rental Assistance Programs
• Nevada Justice Courts: Directory of Courts by County

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. NRS 118A.510 – Limitations on rent regulation by local governments
3. Nevada Assembly Bill 298 (2023 Regular Session)

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