Nevada Tenant Rights in Short-Term Vacation Rentals

If you're renting a home, apartment, or room for a short stay through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO in Nevada, it's important to know how your rights as a tenant may differ from those of long-term leases. Understanding the specific rules that apply to short-term vacation rentals can help you protect your interests, avoid common pitfalls, and resolve disputes quickly.

Definitions and Applicability

In Nevada, a short-term vacation rental generally refers to a rental agreement lasting less than 28 consecutive days, often arranged through vacation rental platforms. These rentals may not always be covered by traditional landlord-tenant protections under Nevada law, but some legal safeguards still apply.

• Short-term rental: Typically stays under 28 days, non-permanent residency
• Long-term lease: 30 days or more, governed by the full protections of Nevada state law

Most short-term stays do not establish tenant status under the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹. However, you may still have certain rights, especially if the rental period approaches 30 days or involves recurring bookings.

Key Rights and Protections for Nevada Short-Term Renters

Eviction and Removal

Unlike traditional tenants, guests in short-term rentals may not be protected by Nevada’s formal eviction process. Instead, the rental may end as soon as your booking expires. But, if the host tries to remove you before your paid rental period is over, you have a right to contest this through the courts.

• If you remain after the end date, you may be considered a "holdover guest" and can be removed with police assistance without a formal eviction notice.
• If you are removed before your agreed stay ends, contact local law enforcement or the appropriate county court for assistance.

Notice Requirements and Refunds

Most short-term rental agreements will specify cancellation policies, refund rules, and expectations for notice. Nevada law does not set minimum notice periods for short-term rentals, so the contract or rental platform's rules typically apply. If you feel your agreement was violated, you can:

• Request written communication about your rights to stay or to refunds
• File a civil complaint in the relevant Nevada Justice Court

Maintenance and Safety Standards

While short-term guests may not be covered by the same repair requirements as traditional tenants, Nevada law prohibits dangerous or illegal rental conditions (such as lack of smoke detectors or unsafe exits). Unsafe conditions can be reported to the local health or building authority or, in urgent cases, to the police or fire department.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Unlawful Detainer/Eviction Forms (Nevada Justice Court)
  • Form: Justice Court Civil Complaint for Unlawful Detainer (available here)
  • When to use: If you are being forced out of a short-term rental before your agreement ends, you may file a complaint to regain access or claim damages. Example: Your host cancels mid-stay and locks you out.
• Small Claims Complaint Form
  • Form: Small Claims Affidavit (official form link)
  • When to use: If you are owed a refund or have a monetary dispute relating to your rental, you may file in small claims court. Example: Security deposit is unfairly withheld or you are not refunded after cancellation.

Who Handles Short-Term Rental Disputes in Nevada?

Most rental disputes are handled by the Nevada Justice Courts. For disputes involving illegal activity or unsafe conditions, your local county government or city code enforcement office may also be involved. Traditional landlord-tenant disputes fall under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, but short-term stays often require civil complaints or police involvement.

What To Do If You Have a Problem

1. Read your rental agreement or booking contract for specific rules.
2. Contact your host or rental platform in writing to try to resolve any issues.
3. Gather documentation (receipts, messages, photos) of the issue.
4. If resolution fails, file a complaint in Justice Court or Small Claims Court as outlined above.
5. Reach out to local tenant resources or legal aid if needed.

FAQ: Nevada Short-Term Vacation Rentals

1. Are short-term vacation renters considered tenants under Nevada law?
   Generally, no. Most short-term guests (less than 28–30 days) are not covered by the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protections. Your agreement and general civil law principles apply.
2. Can I be evicted during my paid short-term rental stay?
   No, you cannot be forced out before your rental period ends without valid cause. If you are locked out early, you may file a civil complaint for unlawful detainer.
3. What can I do if the property is unsafe?
   Report urgent hazards to local code enforcement or emergency services. For less serious issues, notify your rental platform and request a refund.
4. How do I get my security deposit back?
   If your deposit is unfairly withheld, request it in writing. Next, file a Small Claims complaint in Nevada Justice Court using the official form.
5. Where do I file a complaint about a vacation rental dispute?
   Most disputes go to your local Nevada Justice Court. For serious safety or criminal issues, contact police or local code enforcement.

Key Takeaways

• Short-term vacation renters have limited tenant protections under Nevada law, but do have rights to safe housing and to complete their paid stay.
• Action steps include reading your agreement, communicating in writing, and using official court forms if disputes arise.
• If you feel your rights were violated, Justice Courts, small claims, and local authorities are your main avenues for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Justice Court Directory – Locate your local court for filing civil complaints
• Nevada Housing Division – State resources and information
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada – Free legal help for renters in Clark County
• Report urgent health or safety threats to your county health department

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1. Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (NRS Chapter 118A)
2. Nevada Justice Courts
3. Clark County Small Claims Forms
4. Nevada Housing Division

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