Updated for 2026

Nevada Security Deposit Laws & Calculator

Nevada gives landlords 30 days to return your security deposit and allows deposits up to 3 months' rent — one of the highest caps in the country. If your landlord wrongfully withholds, you can recover up to 2x the full deposit amount. With potentially large deposits at stake, documentation is critical.

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Nevada Security Deposit — Quick Facts

Return Deadline
30 Days
Maximum Deposit
3 Months' Rent
Penalty for Late Return
Up to 2x Full Deposit
Interest Required
✗ No
Applicable Law
Nev. Rev. Stat. § 118A.242
High Deposit Cap — Know Your Rights: Nevada allows landlords to charge up to 3 months' rent as a security deposit — one of the highest caps in the nation. For a $1,500/month apartment, that's up to $4,500 at stake. Make sure you document the unit thoroughly at move-in and move-out to protect your right to a full refund.

Calculate Your Nevada Deposit Refund

Enter your deposit amount and move-out date to see your landlord's deadline and total refund.

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Nevada Security Deposit Law — Explained

The 30-Day Return Rule

Under Nev. Rev. Stat. § 118A.242, landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates the unit. The landlord must provide an itemized written statement of any deductions. If the landlord fails to comply within 30 days, the tenant may recover the full deposit.

The 3 Months' Rent Cap

Nevada allows landlords to charge up to 3 months' rent as a security deposit — significantly higher than most states. This means large sums can be at stake, especially in high-rent areas like Las Vegas and Reno. The high cap makes it even more important to document the unit's condition at move-in and move-out with timestamped photos and video.

What Your Landlord Can Deduct

Nevada landlords may deduct for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and costs to restore the unit to its original condition. Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, faded paint, carpet worn from regular use — cannot be charged to the tenant. All deductions must be itemized in a written statement.

The 2x Penalty

If a landlord wrongfully withholds a security deposit in Nevada, the tenant can recover up to 2 times the full deposit amount. Given Nevada's high deposit cap, this penalty can be substantial. For example, if your landlord wrongfully withholds a $4,500 deposit, you could potentially recover up to $9,000 in court.

What to Do If Your Landlord Won't Return Your Deposit

  1. 1
    Document everything before you leave Take timestamped photos and video of every room. Keep your lease and all communications.
  2. 2
    Wait 30 days after move-out Nevada law gives your landlord 30 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized deduction list.
  3. 3
    Send a formal demand letter Use RenterCalc's demand letter generator citing Nev. Rev. Stat. § 118A.242. Send via certified mail.
  4. 4
    File in small claims court Nevada's small claims limit is $10,000. You can sue for up to 2x the full deposit amount.

Nevada Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Nevada?
Nevada landlords must return the deposit within 30 days after the tenant moves out.
What is the maximum security deposit in Nevada?
Nevada limits security deposits to 3 months' rent — one of the highest caps in the country.
What is the penalty for not returning a security deposit in Nevada?
Tenants can recover up to 2x the full deposit amount if the landlord wrongfully withholds.
Does Nevada require interest on security deposits?
No. Nevada does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits.
How do I get my security deposit back in Nevada?
Document the unit at move-out, wait 30 days, send a demand letter citing Nev. Rev. Stat. § 118A.242, and file in small claims court (limit: $10,000) if unresolved.

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