Nevada Security Deposit Laws: Limits & Return Timeframes

If you rent a home or apartment in Nevada, it's important to understand how security deposits work. Nevada state law sets limits on how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit, and there are clear rules for when it must be returned. Knowing your rights and the process can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure you get back what you’re owed.

How Much Can Landlords Charge for a Security Deposit in Nevada?

In Nevada, the law sets a clear cap: landlords cannot require a security deposit (including any additional deposits, like cleaning or pet deposits) larger than the equivalent of three months’ rent.^[1] This means if your monthly rent is $1,000, your total required deposits cannot exceed $3,000.

• This limit covers all refundable deposits combined.
• Non-refundable fees (like some application or cleaning fees) are not counted in this cap, but they must be disclosed clearly in your rental agreement.

Do You Pay Interest on Security Deposits?

Nevada law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits, unless your lease states otherwise.

When Should You Get Your Security Deposit Back in Nevada?

After you move out and return your keys, your landlord must return your security deposit within 30 days.^[1] The deposit should come with a detailed written statement explaining any deductions for unpaid rent, cleaning, or repairs beyond normal wear and tear.

• If the entire deposit is being withheld, the landlord still must send you a written accounting within 30 days.
• It's important to give your landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out to receive your deposit on time.

What Can Be Deducted from a Security Deposit?

Under Nevada law, landlords can subtract from your deposit for:

• Unpaid rent
• Repair of damages (beyond normal wear and tear)
• Cleaning the unit (if it was not left as clean as when you moved in)

Landlords may not deduct for ordinary wear and tear, such as faded paint or worn carpet.

What If Your Landlord Does Not Return Your Deposit?

If you do not receive your deposit, or if you disagree with the deductions, you have options. In Nevada, you can:

• Send a written request for your deposit (keep a copy for your records).
• File a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division, the official agency overseeing landlord-tenant matters. Access landlord-tenant information.
• File a claim in Nevada Small Claims Court for up to $10,000 if you're unable to resolve the issue directly with your landlord.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Tenant’s Security Deposit Demand Letter (No official state form number): Use this written letter to formally request your deposit from your landlord if it has not been returned within 30 days. The Nevada Security Deposit Dispute Form is provided by the Nevada Real Estate Division. Send a copy to your landlord and keep one for your records.
• Nevada Small Claims Complaint Form: If needed, you can download this from the relevant justice court website in your county. Use this to begin a claim to recover your deposit.

Always keep copies of all forms and correspondence. Documentation is key if you need to escalate your claim.

Relevant Nevada Legislation and Tribunal

The laws covering security deposits in Nevada are found in Nevada Revised Statutes § 118A.242. The official agency handling landlord-tenant disputes is the Nevada Real Estate Division.

Frequently Asked Questions About Security Deposits in Nevada

1. How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Nevada?
   Landlords can require a maximum security deposit of three months’ rent, including all refundable deposits.
2. What is the deadline for returning a security deposit in Nevada?
   By law, landlords must return your deposit (with an itemized explanation of any deductions) within 30 days after you move out.
3. What if my landlord keeps my deposit unfairly?
   You may send a formal demand, and if that fails, file a claim in small claims court or submit a complaint to the Nevada Real Estate Division.
4. Can a landlord deduct for painting or carpet cleaning?
   No, unless there is excessive damage beyond normal wear and tear. Routine cleaning and wear are the landlord’s responsibility.
5. Are there official forms to demand my security deposit back?
   Yes. You can use the Security Deposit Dispute Form from the Nevada Real Estate Division or file a Small Claims Complaint if needed.

Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Nevada limits security deposits to three months’ rent.
• Your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days of move-out with written explanations of any deductions.
• If you have issues, use the official forms and resources from the Nevada Real Estate Division or file in small claims court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Nevada

• Nevada Real Estate Division – Landlord/Tenant Information
• Nevada Revised Statutes § 118A.242 – Security Deposits Law
• Nevada Statewide Consumer Legal Center – Renters Rights
• Nevada Small Claims Court Information

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes § 118A.242 — Security Deposit Laws
2. Nevada Real Estate Division – Landlord/Tenant Resources

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