Nevada Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections

If you are a renter in Nevada facing domestic violence, state law provides specific protections to help you remain safe in your home. These rules make it easier to break your lease, change your locks quickly, and protect your privacy from your abuser.

Key Protections for Nevada Tenants Experiencing Domestic Violence

The Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A outline tenant and landlord laws, including important domestic violence provisions. Here are the main protections available to renters:

• Early Lease Termination: Victims of domestic violence have the right to end their rental agreement early without penalty, if they follow the state law requirements.
• Lock Changes: Tenants can request that their landlord change the locks quickly to keep out their abuser, even if the abuser is on the lease.
• Confidentiality: Landlords must keep information about a tenant's domestic violence status confidential.

Breaking a Lease for Safety

If you need to move out for your safety, Nevada law lets you give your landlord written notice to terminate your rental agreement early. You do not have to pay rent after the notice period, nor pay fees for breaking the lease, as long as you provide the required documents.

• Written notice to your landlord stating you are a victim and wish to terminate
• Proof of domestic violence, such as a police report, protection order, or affidavit from a qualified third party
• Official Nevada process gives you a 30-day notice period after the landlord receives your documents

Lock Change Requests

For immediate safety, you can ask for your locks to be changed. Your landlord must do so within 24 hours of your written request and proof:

• Provide written notice that you are a victim of domestic violence
• Attach documentation (such as protection order or police report)

After the locks are changed, the abuser may not receive a key, even if named on the lease.

Required Forms for Nevada Renters

• 30-Day Notice of Termination (Domestic Violence)
  No official statewide form name/number, but must include:
  • Statement that you are a victim of domestic violence seeking early lease termination
  • Date notice is given
  • Your address and signature
  • Attach proof: police report, protection order, or affidavit from a qualified third party

  When to use: To end your rental agreement without penalty due to domestic violence. For an example and model language, visit the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services Safe Housing Resources page.

• Lock Change Request
  No prescribed statewide form, but your written request must:
  • State that you are a victim requesting a lock change
  • Include proof as above

  When to use: Give to your landlord to have your locks changed within 24 hours for safety.

Which Tribunal Oversees Tenant Disputes?

The Nevada Justice Courts handle most rental and eviction disputes. If you have a problem with your landlord about these protections, you may apply to your local Justice Court (Find Your Local Court).

How to Use Nevada Tenant Domestic Violence Protections

If you are a Nevada renter experiencing domestic violence, you can take these steps to secure your rights and safety:

• Collect documentation of the violence (such as a police report or protection order)
• Draft a written notice to your landlord, attaching required proof
• Submit the notice in writing (keep a copy for your records)
• For lock changes, specifically request prompt action in your written notice
• Contact your local Justice Court if your landlord does not respond appropriately

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me for reporting domestic violence?
   No. Nevada law prohibits landlords from retaliating or evicting you solely because you reported domestic violence or asked for protections.
2. Does my abuser need to be on the lease for me to use these protections?
   No. You are protected whether or not your abuser is on your rental agreement.
3. How quickly must my landlord change the locks?
   Your landlord is required to change the locks within 24 hours after getting your written request and documentation.
4. What proof is accepted to use these rights?
   Proof can include a police report, a court-issued protection order, or a signed statement from a qualified professional.
5. Who keeps the domestic violence information confidential?
   Your landlord must not share information about your domestic violence status except as required by law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Nevada tenants experiencing domestic violence can break leases and request lock changes for safety.
• Written notice and proper documentation are required—but forms are simple and support is available.
• Your rights are protected by Nevada law, and support resources are ready to help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Safe Housing Resources – Statewide services and sample forms for victims
• Nevada Attorney General: Domestic Violence Resources
• Find Your Local Justice Court – For landlord-tenant applications or disputes

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A: Landlord and Tenant: Dwellings
2. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 33: Protection Orders
3. Nevada Justice Courts Landlord-Tenant Information

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