Nevada Renters’ Rights: Handling Mold Problems in Your Rental

Mold in a rental home can harm your health and comfort. If you’re renting in Nevada and notice mold or moisture problems, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you can take. This guide walks you through Nevada’s current laws, landlord and tenant responsibilities, and how to resolve mold problems quickly and safely.

Understanding Mold Problems in Nevada Rentals

Mold often appears as green, black, or white spots in damp places. It can cause breathing issues, allergies, and worsen asthma. In Nevada, maintaining a safe and habitable home is a legal right for renters under Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A (Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings)^[1].

Landlord’s Duty: The Implied Warranty of Habitability

Your landlord must keep rental units “habitable.” This means providing a premise free of dangerous conditions, including excessive mold or water leaks that may cause mold. Nevada law requires landlords to:

• Repair or remove hazards seriously affecting health or safety (including mold from leaks, floods, or humidity)
• Respond to written requests for repairs within 14 days
• Abide by all building and health codes

Tenants are responsible for keeping the rental reasonably clean and telling the landlord when something needs repair that could lead to mold.

How to Report Mold and Request Repairs

If you discover mold in your home, Nevada law lets you formally request repairs. The process starts with notifying your landlord in writing to give them a chance to fix the problem.

Official Form: Notice to Landlord of Maintenance Problems

• Form Name: Nevada Tenant’s Notice of Required Repairs
• When and How to Use: Use this written notice if you have a problem (like mold) the landlord must fix. Clearly describe where and what the mold issue is, include photos if possible, and keep a copy for your records. This notice gives your landlord 14 days to start repairs.
• Download Nevada Tenant Notice to Landlord for Repairs (PDF)

If the landlord fails to respond or repair the mold after 14 days (except for emergencies, which must be addressed immediately), you may have further options.

What If the Landlord Doesn’t Fix the Mold?

If your landlord does not make repairs within the required time, you can:

• Ask the local code enforcement office to inspect if there is a major habitability issue
• Use the “repair and deduct” remedy — but only for serious problems and within legal limits (see below)
• File a Tenant’s Verified Complaint with the local Nevada Justice Court if major habitability conditions exist

Repair and Deduct Remedy

Nevada permits renters to arrange and pay for essential repairs themselves after proper notice, then deduct the reasonable cost (up to one month’s rent) from the next rent payment. Never skip rent; always follow the legal process exactly.

• Give written notice and wait 14 days
• Keep receipts for all reasonable repair costs
• Send copies of the receipts and a repair summary with your next rent payment

Your Right to a Safe and Healthy Rental

You do not have to live with unsafe conditions. Mold from leaks or poor maintenance is covered under Nevada’s habitability laws. Document every step, keep copies of your communication, and always seek help if you feel your concerns are being ignored.

Key Nevada Authorities for Residential Tenancies

• Nevada Justice Court: Handles landlord-tenant disputes, including habitability claims
• Nevada Housing Division: Provides renter resources, guidance, and official forms

Relevant Nevada Laws and Legislation

• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings^[1]

FAQ: Mold in Nevada Rentals

1. What should I do right away if I find mold in my Nevada rental?
   Write a notice to your landlord describing the problem and ask for repairs. Use the Nevada Tenant Notice to Landlord for Repairs form for best results, and keep a copy.
2. Can I withhold rent if the landlord ignores my mold complaint?
   No. Withholding rent is not legal in Nevada. Instead, use the "repair and deduct" option after following the required process, or seek help from the Nevada Justice Court.
3. How long does my landlord have to fix mold?
   Landlords have 14 days after written notice to start repairs for mold or habitability issues (immediately if it's an emergency).
4. Does Nevada law say exactly how mold must be cleaned up?
   No. Nevada’s law requires landlords to fix the cause, like leaks or excess moisture, but doesn’t specify mold cleanup standards. Persistent mold should always be reported.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord won’t address mold problems?
   Contact the local code enforcement office, Nevada Legal Services, or file a complaint with your local Justice Court.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Nevada renters are protected by clear laws requiring landlords to maintain safe, habitable homes—including repair of mold problems
• You must give written notice and allow 14 days (unless it’s an emergency) for repairs
• Use official forms and local agencies if you need help enforcing your rights

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Housing Division: Renter rights, landlord obligations, forms
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada: Tenant advocacy, sample forms, guidance
• Nevada Justice Court Directory: File habitability or repair claims
• Clark County Code Enforcement: Report major habitability/code violations

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A – Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings

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