DisputeKit / Nevada
How long does a Nevada landlord have to return a security deposit?
30 days. Under Nevada Revised Statutes § 118A.242, a landlord must provide an itemized, written accounting of the security deposit and return any remaining portion within 30 days. The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit. If they miss that deadline, they lose the right to keep any part of the deposit. A court may also award damages equal to the entire security deposit plus an additional sum of up to the entire security deposit if the landlord fails or refuses to return the remainder within 30 days; in setting the additional sum the court considers the landlord's good faith, the course of conduct between the parties and the harm to the tenant.
I moved out of my place in on and my landlord still has my $ deposit.
Fill in the blanks to see your deadline. Free, no account.
Conditions that change the deadline
- The landlord may hand the refund to the tenant where rent is paid or mail it to the tenant's present address or, if that is unknown, to the last known address, so give the landlord your new address in writing.
What Nevada law says about deductions and your rights
- The landlord may claim only amounts reasonably necessary to cover unpaid rent, repair of damage caused by the tenant other than normal wear, and reasonable cleaning costs.
- Total deposits and surety bonds may not exceed 3 months' rent.
- A lease may provide for a reasonable nonrefundable cleaning charge, but any clause calling the security deposit nonrefundable or waiving the tenant's rights is void.
If the deadline has passed
Send a written demand letter. State the dates and amounts, the law and the deadline, and a date by which you expect payment. Keep proof that you sent it.
If they still don't pay, you can file in small claims court. The limit in Nevada is $10,000 (small claims in the justice courts), and the filing fee is Varies by justice court and amount claimed; in Clark County about $55 to $145, plus the cost of serving the defendant.
Steps
- Find your move-out date and deposit amount
- Work out when the clock started: The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit
- Count 30 days from that date to find the deadline
- Send a written demand letter citing the law
- File in small claims court if unpaid
Common questions
When does the clock start in Nevada?
The clock starts when you move out and hand back possession of the unit.
What if I got part of my deposit back?
You can still ask for the rest. Your claim is the deposit minus what was returned and minus any deductions you agree were allowed.
Can I get more than my deposit back?
Possibly. Nevada law allows a court to award damages equal to the entire security deposit plus an additional sum of up to the entire security deposit if the landlord fails or refuses to return the remainder within 30 days; in setting the additional sum the court considers the landlord's good faith, the course of conduct between the parties and the harm to the tenant. A judge decides; it is not guaranteed.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not usually. Small claims court in Nevada is designed for people without lawyers. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney.