Nevada Renters: What to Do If You’re Locked Out
If you are a renter in Nevada and find yourself locked out of your rental unit, it’s important to know your rights and the correct steps to take. Understanding lockout laws protects you from unlawful evictions and ensures landlords follow legal procedures under Nevada law. Below is a guide to help you respond confidently and effectively if you are ever locked out, including how to exercise your rights, who to contact, and which forms may be needed.
Your Rights If Locked Out in Nevada
In Nevada, it is illegal for a landlord to lock you out of your rental unit without a court order. This means your landlord cannot change locks, remove doors, cut off utilities, or prevent you from entering—unless they have received an official eviction order from the court. These protections are outlined in the Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.[1]
What Is Considered an Illegal Lockout?
- Changing or adding locks without your consent
- Blocking entrances to your home
- Removing doors or windows
- Shutting off water, electricity, or essential utilities in an attempt to force you out
If any of these actions occur without a court-ordered eviction, your landlord is violating Nevada law.
Steps to Take If You’re Locked Out
- Stay calm and do not attempt to force entry or damage property, as this can create legal complications.
- Try to contact your landlord or property manager to request immediate entry and ask for the reason for the lockout.
- If your landlord refuses entry and there is no court eviction order, remind them that this act is unlawful under Nevada law.
- Document the situation: take photos, save texts or emails, and record the date and time you discovered the lockout.
- Contact local law enforcement via the non-emergency police number and explain you are locked out unlawfully. Police may help restore access or document the event.
- If you feel unsafe or believe your health is at risk, contact 911 immediately.
- If necessary, file an emergency motion with the court for restoration of possession (to re-enter your home).
Official Forms for Challenging a Lockout
-
Tenant’s Verified Complaint – Illegal Lockout (No standard statewide form, but many Nevada courts provide templates.)
- When to use: File this complaint if you have been locked out by your landlord without a court order.
- How it works: You complete the complaint and submit it to your local Justice Court. The court will review your case and may order your landlord to allow you back in.
- For Clark County, use the Clark County Landlord-Tenant Resources page to access relevant forms and find instructions.
-
Tenant’s Motion to Restore Possession (Emergency)
- When to use: If you’ve been locked out and need a judge to order the landlord to let you in urgently.
- How it works: File this motion in your local Justice Court along with your complaint. The court may issue a quick hearing (sometimes same-day) to decide on allowing you back into your home.
- Find sample emergency motion forms for your county by visiting your local Justice Court’s official website.
Always check with your specific county or city court for the official forms, as procedures vary by location in Nevada.
The Official Tribunal Handling Rental Disputes in Nevada
Most rental housing disputes in Nevada (including unlawful lockouts) are handled by the Justice Courts in each county. Clark County tenants use the Clark County Justice Court - Landlord Tenant Division for filings and information. Be sure to file your complaint in the Justice Court with jurisdiction over your rental address.
What Is the Key Nevada Legislation?
The primary law protecting renters from illegal lockouts in Nevada is the Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A. In particular:
- Section 118A.390 prohibits landlords from excluding tenants from the premises without a court order.
- Section 118A.500 allows renters to seek damages and immediate access if unlawfully locked out.
For the official text, visit Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What should I do first if I am locked out by my landlord in Nevada?
First, remain calm and contact your landlord to ask for re-entry. If denied, document what’s happened and contact local law enforcement for help. - Is it legal for my landlord to change my locks without a court order?
No. Nevada law makes it illegal for a landlord to change locks or otherwise deny access without an official court eviction order. - Can I take legal action if I’m locked out illegally?
Yes. You can file a complaint and emergency motion with the local Justice Court to regain access and may also seek damages. - Who handles lockout disputes and tenant complaints in Nevada?
Local Justice Courts in your county handle rental lockout disputes and related filings. - Are there official forms I can use if I’m locked out?
Yes, contact your county’s Justice Court for a Tenant’s Verified Complaint or Emergency Motion to Restore Possession. These forms are often available online.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters
- Landlords cannot legally lock you out or change your locks without a court order in Nevada.
- If you’re locked out, document everything, contact law enforcement, and use official court forms to restore access.
- The Justice Court in your local county is the proper place to file a complaint or emergency motion.
Knowing your rights and following the correct procedures can help you resolve a lockout quickly and protect your home under Nevada law.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- Find Your Local Nevada Justice Court – File complaints or motions regarding unlawful lockouts.
- Nevada Housing Division – Information on state tenant laws and rental assistance programs.
- Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada – Free legal help for renters facing housing issues including lockouts.
- Nevada Attorney General’s Office – File a Complaint for consumer protection if your rights are violated.
- Text of Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – The law governing landlord-tenant relationships and lockout protections.
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 & SituationsRelated Articles
- Nevada Rules for Tenants Changing Locks · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Smoke Alarm Laws: Tenant Responsibilities & Rights · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Renter Rights During Storms and Flood Emergencies · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Renters: Understanding Emergency Exit Lighting Standards · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Security Deposit and Damage Deposit Rules Explained · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Rules on Security Cameras in Shared Apartment Areas · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Rules for Emergency Maintenance Hotlines · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025
- Nevada Fire Sprinkler Inspection Rules for Renters · June 21, 2025 June 21, 2025