Nevada law puts firm limits on security deposits, both in size and in what a landlord can deduct. If you're getting nothing back — or only a fraction — and the deductions don't add up, you have specific remedies under NRS 118A.242. Here's the breakdown.
Total non-refundable fees plus refundable deposits cannot exceed three months' periodic rent. Anything more than that is unenforceable, even if you signed a lease saying otherwise.
Within 30 days of you moving out, the landlord must mail you the deposit balance and a written, itemized list of any deductions. Skipping either step is a violation.
Landlords can deduct unpaid rent, the cost of fixing actual damage beyond normal wear and tear, and reasonable cleaning costs over and above ordinary tenant cleanup. "Painting because we always paint" usually doesn't qualify.
If the landlord doesn't return your deposit on time or itemizes in bad faith, NRS 118A.242 lets you sue for the wrongfully withheld amount plus damages, often through small claims court for fast resolution.
Photograph every room, take dated videos, and ask in writing for a pre-move-out inspection. Landlords are far less likely to over-deduct when there's documentation of how the unit looked when you left.
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