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Nevada security deposit law
Short answer: A Nevada landlord has 30 days after the tenancy ends to return what's left of the deposit with an itemized written accounting. Deposits, including last month's rent and any surety bond, are capped at three months' rent.
| Deadline to return the deposit | 30 days after the tenancy ends. |
|---|---|
| Limit on how much a landlord can charge | Three months' rent, counting last month's rent and any surety bond together. |
| Itemized list of deductions | Yes. An itemized, written accounting of what happened to the deposit, handed over where rent is paid or mailed to the tenant's current (or last known) address. |
| Interest on the deposit | Not required by state law. |
| Penalty if the landlord breaks the rules | A landlord who doesn't return the balance within 30 days owes the entire deposit, plus up to another full deposit in damages set by the court (based on good faith, how the parties dealt with each other, and harm to the tenant). |
| What the tenant has to do | Keep the landlord updated on your address. |
| The law | Nevada Revised Statutes 118A.242 |
Official law: Nevada Revised Statutes 118A.242. Checked against the statute on 2026-11-04.
Good to know
- Deductions are limited to unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear, and reasonable cleaning costs.
- A lease can't make the deposit nonrefundable, except for a reasonable nonrefundable cleaning charge.
- A tenant may buy a surety bond instead of some or all of the deposit if the landlord agrees, but the landlord can't require it.
Tips for landlords
- Do a written move-in inspection and have the tenant sign it. Take dated photos of every room, including inside appliances and closets.
- Collect the tenant's forwarding address in writing at move-out.
- Put the itemized list and the refund in the mail well before the deadline, and keep proof of mailing.
- Normal wear and tear (faded paint, light carpet wear, small nail holes) usually can't be charged. Damage beyond that can.
Tips for tenants
- Take your own dated photos and video on move-in day and move-out day.
- Give your landlord your forwarding address in writing, and keep a copy.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand letter that cites the law above before going to small claims court.
Common questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Nevada?
30 days after the tenancy ends.
Is there a limit on security deposits in Nevada?
Three months' rent, counting last month's rent and any surety bond together.
Does a landlord in Nevada have to itemize deductions?
Yes. An itemized, written accounting of what happened to the deposit, handed over where rent is paid or mailed to the tenant's current (or last known) address.