What To Do If Your Landlord Breaks the Lease in Nevada

If you're renting a home or apartment in Nevada and believe your landlord has broken the lease agreement, it's important to know your legal protections and the steps you can take. Nevada law protects renters in situations where landlords don't follow the rules or fail to honor the lease. This guide explains your rights, outlines the process to address violations, and shares helpful resources—so you can act confidently if your landlord doesn't fulfill their responsibilities.

Understanding Lease Violations by Landlords in Nevada

Landlord violations happen when your landlord doesn't follow the terms of your written lease or fails to meet their legal obligations under Nevada law. Common examples include:

• Entering your rental without proper notice
• Refusing to make essential repairs
• Wrongful attempts to evict you
• Raising rent unlawfully before lease ends

Your lease agreement and the Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1] outline these rights and responsibilities.

Steps Nevada Renters Should Take if Their Landlord Breaks the Lease

If you believe your landlord has broken the lease, follow these practical steps:

• Document the violation: Keep a detailed record, including dates, times, and any written communications with your landlord.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Send a written notice (email or letter) describing the violation, your request for action, and a deadline for resolution (usually 14 days for repairs).
• Submit the official "Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent" form if repairs are not made: See the next section for details.
• File a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division (NRED): If the issue is severe or unresolved, you can escalate your complaint to this governmental body.
• Consider seeking mediation or legal action: If all else fails, you may submit your dispute for mediation or file a case in Small Claims Court or Justice Court.

Each of these steps helps protect your rights and creates a clear paper trail, should you need to involve authorities or take legal action.

Relevant Official Forms for Nevada Renters

• Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent –
  Use: If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs that affect health or safety, you may use this notice as outlined in NRS 118A.355. You must give your landlord written notice describing the problem and allow at least 14 days for repairs. If repairs are not made, this form gives notice that you will withhold part or all of your rent until the issue is fixed.
  Get the form: Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent (form 543A) – Nevada Real Estate Division
• Tenant Complaint Form –
  Use: If the landlord does not address your written notices or you face serious violations, you can file a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division's Ombudsman. Use the official complaint form to explain your situation and provide supporting documents.
  Get the form: Tenant Complaint Form – Nevada Real Estate Division

Tip: Always keep copies of all notices and forms you send or receive.

The Tribunal for Residential Tenancy Disputes in Nevada

The main governmental body handling residential tenancy disputes in Nevada is the Nevada Real Estate Division’s Ombudsman for Owners in Common-Interest Communities and Condominium Hotels. For justice court actions (like wrongful eviction or damages claims), you may also need to file with your local Justice Court.

What If Your Landlord Retaliates?

Nevada law protects tenants from "retaliatory conduct" if you exercise your rights—for example, asking for repairs or reporting violations. If you believe you are facing retaliation (like a sudden eviction notice or rent increase after a complaint), document everything and consider filing a complaint with the Real Estate Division or seeking legal advice.

FAQ: Nevada Renters’ Rights When a Landlord Breaks the Lease

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to fix something important?
   If it's a repair affecting health or safety, give written notice describing the issue and allow at least 14 days for the landlord to fix it. If repairs aren't done, you may send a "Notice of Intent to Withhold Rent" and/or file a complaint with the Nevada Real Estate Division.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent before my lease ends?
   No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent during a fixed-term lease unless your agreement specifically allows it. Review your lease and Nevada law for details.
3. What if my landlord enters my home without proper notice?
   Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, except in emergencies. Document the entry and notify your landlord in writing if this happens.
4. How do I file a complaint against my landlord in Nevada?
   Complete the Tenant Complaint Form from the Real Estate Division. Include a clear explanation and supporting evidence, then submit as directed. Contact their office for assistance if you need help.
5. Where can I get free or low-cost legal advice in Nevada?
   You can contact Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada, Nevada Legal Services, or the Ombudsman’s Office for referrals and guidance on your renter rights.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nevada Renters

• Nevada law protects renters when landlords break lease terms or fail legal obligations.
• Document all issues, send written notice, and use official forms to assert your rights.
• Help is available—don't hesitate to contact government agencies or tenant advocates for support.

By staying informed and following these steps, you can protect yourself and resolve problems efficiently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nevada Real Estate Division Ombudsman for Tenants – Information, forms, and complaint resolution
• Nevada Residential Tenant’s Guide – Understand your rights and responsibilities
• Nevada Legal Services – Free and low-cost legal help for renters
• Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada – Tenant advocacy and advice
• Find Your Local Justice Court – For filing claims and eviction issues

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1. Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 118A – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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