Nevada Rental Utility Laws: Who Pays & What Renters Should Know

Deciding who pays for utilities in a Nevada rental—like electricity, water, garbage, and gas—can be confusing. The answer depends on your lease agreement and specific state laws. This guide explains what renters in Nevada need to know about utility charges, your legal rights, and what to do if you have issues.

Understanding Utility Responsibility in Nevada Rentals

In Nevada, utility payments are typically addressed in the rental or lease agreement. Unless otherwise stated, landlords are not automatically required to pay for utilities. Instead, the lease will indicate whether tenants, landlords, or both share responsibility. Always review your lease for clear language about utility billing.

• Tenant Pays: If your agreement says you are responsible, you must set up and pay accounts directly with providers.
• Landlord Pays: Some rentals (like many apartments) have utilities included in the rent. Landlords then handle utility accounts.
• Shared Responsibility: Sometimes, certain utilities (e.g., water/sewage) are covered by the landlord while the renter pays for others like electricity or internet.

In Nevada, Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs rental utility rules.^[1] Review your lease and the statute for specifics.

Mandatory Disclosure: Utility Arrangements

Landlords in Nevada must disclose “any arrangements under which utilities are provided and charged to the tenant.” If your rental is submetered or utilities are split among tenants, this must be stated clearly in the lease.

• Utility Submetering: If each unit has its own meter, you pay for your actual use.
• RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System): Charges are split among tenants using a formula. Look for RUBS or similar mention in your agreement.

If you are unsure of your utility obligations or feel charges are unfair, contact Nevada’s State of Nevada Housing Division for help.

What Happens If Utilities Are Not Paid?

If tenants are responsible for utilities and fail to pay, utility companies may discontinue service. If a landlord is responsible and does not pay, Nevada law gives you certain protections:

• You may provide written notice to the landlord and, if utilities are not restored, end the rental agreement or pay the utility and deduct it from your rent.
• It is illegal for a landlord to deliberately shut off utilities to force a tenant out, except as permitted by law.

Filing a Utility Complaint in Nevada

If you believe your landlord is wrongfully withholding utilities or not following your lease agreement, you can take action:

• Try to resolve the issue in writing first by notifying your landlord.
• If there's no solution, you may file a complaint with the Nevada Housing Division – Tenant Complaints.

Key Form: Tenant Complaint Form (Nevada Housing Division)

• Form Name: Tenant Complaint Form
• When to Use: If your landlord refuses to address a utility shutoff or other rental issue after written notice, use this form to request intervention from the Nevada Housing Division.
• Download Tenant Complaint Form (PDF)

Submit the completed form to the address provided, including copies of your lease and prior correspondence with your landlord.

Your Rights and Common Lease Provisions

Review all terms in your lease regarding utility payments. Your lease should specify:

• Which utilities each party is responsible for
• How billing is handled for shared meters
• How disputes will be resolved

Remember, landlords cannot alter who pays for utilities unless both parties agree in writing.

Relevant Tribunal for Rental Disputes

Disputes between landlords and tenants in Nevada are usually handled by the Nevada Judiciary's Justice Courts, particularly the Justice Courts' Small Claims Division in your area.

FAQ: Nevada Rental Utility Responsibilities

1. Who is usually responsible for paying utility bills in Nevada rentals?
   Responsibility depends on the lease agreement, but often tenants pay utilities that are individually metered, unless rent is advertised as "utilities included."
2. Can a landlord shut off utilities because of unpaid rent?
   No. It is illegal for a landlord to use utility shutoff as a method of eviction except in certain circumstances allowed by law.^[2]
3. What should I do if shared utilities are being unfairly divided?
   Request a breakdown from your landlord, check your lease for RUBS/submetering clauses, and file a complaint with the Nevada Housing Division if you believe you're being overcharged.
4. Where can I get help if my utilities are shut off?
   Contact the Nevada Housing Division's tenant hotline or file a Tenant Complaint Form. In emergencies, contact your local Justice Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Always check your lease for detailed utility payment terms.
• Landlords must disclose utility arrangements and can't disconnect utilities unlawfully.
• If problems arise, Nevada’s Housing Division and Justice Courts can help.

Understanding your responsibilities ensures a smoother rental experience and prevents disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Information for Tenants
• Tenant Complaint Form (PDF)
• Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Find Your Local Justice Court

---

1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. NRS 118A.355 – Unlawful Removal or Exclusion of Tenant or Willful Interruption of Essential Services

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