Nevada Renters: Pest Infestation Rights & Next Steps

Pest infestations—such as bedbugs, cockroaches, or rodents—can quickly make your apartment unsafe and uncomfortable. If you're renting in Nevada and facing pest problems, it’s important to know your rights, your landlord’s responsibilities, and the official steps you can take to resolve the issue under Nevada law.

Your Right to a Safe, Livable Apartment in Nevada

State law requires landlords to keep rental units in a condition that’s “habitable”—meaning safe, healthy, and suitable for living. This includes keeping the property free from pest infestations unless the tenant’s actions caused the problem. The main law that governs this is the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings.^[1]

• Pest-free living spaces are part of a landlord’s duty to provide safe and healthy housing.
• Tenants are generally only responsible if they caused the infestation due to negligence or uncleanliness.

What to Do If You Discover Pests

Acting quickly is key. Notifying your landlord promptly gives them a chance to address the issue and fulfills your responsibility as a renter.

Step 1: Notify Your Landlord in Writing

• Use clear language describing the pest problem (for example, “I have found cockroaches in the kitchen cabinets”).
• Include the date and keep a copy of the notice for your records.

If you prefer, you can use Nevada’s official maintenance request forms, or simply write a letter or email. There is no required government-issued form for initial pest notification in Nevada.

Step 2: Allow Reasonable Time for Repairs

• Landlords generally have 14 days to start repairs after you officially notify them of an issue affecting habitability, including pests.
• Document all communications and any actions taken by your landlord.

Step 3: File a Complaint if Not Resolved

If the landlord fails to act, renters can file a complaint or contact appropriate state or county authorities:

• For most habitability and pest issues, contact your local code enforcement or county health department.
• In Clark County (Las Vegas area), you can report unsanitary or unsafe housing conditions through the Clark County Code Enforcement Complaint Form.^[2]
  • Form Name: Clark County Code Enforcement Complaint Form
  • How to Use: File this form if your landlord hasn’t properly addressed a pest problem. Complete the online form describing your issue and provide contact information.

Step 4: Withholding Rent or Repair and Deduct (With Caution)

Nevada law allows renters in some cases to withhold rent or arrange for qualified repairs and deduct the cost from their rent. Strict requirements apply:

• You must submit written notice and allow time for landlord response.
• Repairs must be by a licensed professional; keep all receipts.
• It’s safest to seek legal guidance before withholding rent or attempting "repair and deduct."

For full details, review NRS 118A.355 on repair and deduct.

Which Government Bodies Handle Rental Disputes in Nevada?

• The official tribunal for rental disputes in Nevada is the Nevada Justice Court at the county level.^[3]
• Most habitability complaints (including pests) are first addressed by code enforcement or health departments.
• If the landlord tries to evict you or retaliate, you can file with your county’s Justice Court.

For a guide on tenant protections, see the Nevada Tenant and Landlord Handbook (2023).

Official Forms for Nevada Renters

• Clark County Code Enforcement Complaint Form
  • When to Use: If you have notified your landlord, waited a reasonable period, and no action was taken, submit this online form to report unresolved pest infestations in Clark County.
  • Access form here
• Justice Court Complaint Forms
  • When to Use: If you are facing eviction or need to respond to a landlord’s action related to pest complaints, you may need to file or respond in Justice Court.
  • Find forms and information

1. If my landlord does not address pests, what action can I take?
   Submit written notice, allow 14 days, file a complaint with code enforcement, and if unresolved, seek further help from county health departments or Justice Court.
2. Am I responsible for pest removal costs in Nevada?
   Landlords are usually responsible unless you caused the problem through neglect or unclean living conditions.
3. Can my landlord evict me for reporting pests?
   Nevada law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants for exercising their legal rights, including reporting pest issues.
4. How do I submit a complaint for rental conditions in Nevada?
   File an official complaint with local code enforcement. In Clark County, use the online complaint form.
5. What is considered a reasonable time for repairs?
   Landlords typically have 14 days after being notified in writing to start addressing health and safety issues, including pest infestations.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Landlords must keep rentals free of pest infestations unless the tenant caused the issue.
• Always notify landlords of problems in writing and document all actions.
• If your landlord does not act, official complaint forms and legal protections are available statewide.

Understanding your rights empowers you to seek safe, healthy housing and better outcomes with your landlord or local authorities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division – Statewide housing information and support.
• Nevada Legal Services – Free or low-cost legal help for renters.
• Clark County Code Enforcement – File complaints about substandard housing.
• Las Vegas Justice Court – Landlord Tenant
• Nevada Tenant and Landlord Handbook (2023)

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A: Landlord and Tenant—Dwellings
2. Clark County Code Enforcement: Filing a Complaint
3. Las Vegas Justice Court: Landlord Tenant Information

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