When your tenancy ends, your landlord cannot just keep your security deposit without a good reason. They can only withhold money for three specific things:
- Unpaid rent
- Reasonable cleaning costs
- Damages (beyond normal wear and tear)
The 30-Day Rule
Your landlord has no later than 30 days after your tenancy ends to return your full deposit or provide an itemized, written list showing exactly what money was kept, what it was used for, and return whatever amount is left. This must be given to you personally or mailed to your present or last known address (NRS 118A.242(4)).
If You're Missing the Deposit
You have the right to take your landlord to court if it has been over 30 days and you have not received your deposit or an itemized list. If a court finds the landlord wrongfully kept your money, they can be ordered to pay you up to twice the amount of the security deposit (NRS 118A.242(6)).
If You Disagree with the Charges
If your landlord sent a list of deductions but you think the charges are unfair (like charging you to replace a carpet that just had normal wear and tear), you can fight it by taking these steps:
- Write a Demand Letter: Send a formal letter to your landlord explaining exactly what you disagree with and demand the return of the money you are owed
- File in Small Claims Court: If the landlord ignores your letter or refuses to pay, you can sue them in small claims court to get your money back
Small Claims Help
You don't have to navigate small claims court alone. Take advantage of these free resources:
- Online Classes: Attend our online Small Claims class (www.lacsn.org/scclass)
- Ask-A-Lawyer Events: Speak directly with an attorney over the phone (www.lacsn.org/scask)
- Self-Help Center: Visit the Civil Law Self-Help Center website for forms and guides (www.lacsn.org/scguide)
Click here to view the flyer.
Haga clic aquí para español.
Law & Caution Episode
Our Consumer Rights Project attorneys discussed tips for getting a security deposit back and other issues tenants may face when renting a home or apartment in an episode of our Law & Caution podcast, "Renters Beware: Navigating Apartment and Home Rentals."
Tips for Moving Out
Our guide for moving out of a rental in Nevada goes over getting as much of your security deposit back as possible, when and how to notify your property manager, how to prepare the unit, and your legal rights if you need to break a lease early. For all our tips, visit www.lacsn.org/movingout.
