Nevada Security Deposit Laws: 3-Month Max & 30-Day Return
Understand Nevada security deposit laws under NRS 118A.242, including the 3-month maximum, non-refundable fees, and the 30-day return timeline.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Governed by the Nevada Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (NRS Chapter 118A), originally enacted on July 1, 1977, Nevada gives landlords substantial financial protection by allowing relatively high security deposits, but balances this with strict, fast-paced deadlines for accounting and returning funds when a tenancy ends.
Maximum Security Deposit Limitations
Under NRS 118A.242, a Nevada landlord can demand a maximum security deposit equal to three months' rent for all residential rental units.
- No Statutory Variation: Unlike some states, Nevada law does not specify a lower cap for furnished units; the three-month maximum applies universally.
- Surety Bonds in Lieu of Deposits: A tenant and landlord can mutually agree for the tenant to purchase a surety bond instead of paying a cash deposit. The cost of the bond, however, combined with any cash deposit, still cannot exceed the three-month maximum.
Non-Refundable Fees
Nevada law allows for a non-refundable cleaning fee in a reasonable amount, provided it is explicitly designated as such in the written rental agreement (NRS 118A.242(8)). However, Nevada does not permit other types of non-refundable fees. Any provision in a rental agreement that characterizes any other part of a security deposit as non-refundable is void as contrary to public policy. This includes pet fees, which fall under the definition of a security deposit (NRS 118A.240) and must remain refundable.
No Interest Requirement
Unlike states such as Maryland or New Jersey, Nevada does not require landlords to hold security deposits in interest-bearing accounts, nor does it require landlords to pay tenants any accrued interest upon move-out.
The 30-Day Return Timeline
When a lease ends and the tenant vacates the property, the landlord has exactly 30 days to return the security deposit.
If the landlord needs to make deductions from the deposit, they must provide the tenant with an itemized written accounting detailing the exact costs, along with whatever portion of the deposit remains, within that 30-day window (NRS 118A.242(4)).
Allowable Deductions A landlord may only deduct money from a deposit for:
- Remedying any default in the payment of rent.
- Repairing damages to the premises caused by the tenant (excluding standard "normal wear and tear" as defined in NRS 118A.110).
- Cleaning the unit upon termination of the tenancy.
Penalties for Wrongful Withholding
If a landlord fails to provide the itemized list or fails to return the deposit within 30 days, the tenant can sue in Justice Court (Small Claims). The judge may award the tenant the full deposit back, plus damages up to an amount equal to the entire security deposit (effectively double damages) pursuant to NRS 118A.242(6).
Digital Move-Out Ledgers
Calculating standard wear-and-tear versus actual tenant damage within a strict 30-day window can be stressful. Landager streamlines your property turnover by generating timestamped move-out ledgers, automatically preparing itemized deductions, and reminding you on Day 25 to send your accounting letters to remain strictly compliant with NRS 118A.242.
How Landager Helps
Landager tracks lease terms, monitors state specific compliance requirements, and automates rent notices - making it easy to stay compliant with Nevada regulations.
Back to Nevada Landlord-Tenant Laws Overview.
Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What are the Nevada security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Nevada has specific rules governing how much landlords can charge for security deposits, how deposits must be held, and the deadline for returning deposits after a tenant moves out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from the deposit. Failure to comply with deposit return deadlines can result in penalties and the forfeiture of the landlord's right to claim deductions.
▶What are the Nevada landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
Residential tenancies in Nevada are primarily governed by Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Chapter 118A. Unlike states with heavy tenant protections, Nevada maintains a relatively balanced approach, featuring unique "summary eviction" procedures that expedite court filings for landlords, while still strictly enforcing caps on security deposits and late fees to protect tenants. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
Read the complete guide▶What is the Nevada eviction process and how long does it take?
The Nevada eviction process requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing a court action. The type and length of notice depends on the reason for eviction — typically shorter for non-payment of rent and longer for lease violations or no-fault terminations. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Nevada. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Nevada rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Nevada has specific rules governing when and how landlords can increase rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease explicitly allows it. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice before an increase takes effect. Check whether Nevada has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
Read the complete guide▶What is the grace period for late rent in Nevada?
Nevada has specific rules regarding grace periods for late rent and the amount that can be charged as a late fee. Late fee provisions must be stated in the lease agreement, and fees must be reasonable. Check Nevada state law and any applicable local ordinances for the exact grace period and late fee limits that apply to your rental property.
Read the complete guide▶What disclosures must Nevada landlords provide to tenants?
Nevada landlords must provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the time of lease signing. Common required disclosures include lead-based paint hazards (for pre-1978 buildings, a federal requirement), the identity of the landlord or property manager, and any known material defects in the property. Additional state-specific disclosures may include flood risk, mold hazards, and environmental conditions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Nevada lease requirements for rental properties?
Nevada recognizes both written and oral leases, though written leases are strongly recommended for terms longer than one year. Lease agreements should include the rent amount, payment due date, security deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding entry, pets, and subletting. Certain lease clauses that waive tenant statutory rights may be void and unenforceable under Nevada law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Nevada landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Nevada landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is fit for habitation and complies with applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes maintaining structural integrity, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and pest control. Tenants typically have the right to request repairs in writing, and if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, tenants may have legal remedies available.
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