Nevada Security Deposit Return Deadline
- Penalty for missing it
- 2x (twice the deposit) (failure to return or provide the itemized accounting — up to 2x the deposit (NRS 118A.242(5)))
- The law
- NRS 118A.242
The rule
30 days after termination of tenancy (or surrender/acceptance of the premises, or the tenant's eviction/abandonment). Itemized accounting required for any deductions (NRS 118A.242).
- Deposit cap: 3 months' rent — one of the highest caps in the US.
- Applies to most residential rentals; single-family owner-occupied exempt in some cases.
What happens if your landlord misses the deadline
In Nevada, a missed deadline seriously weakens your landlord's position. Depending on the circumstances, they may forfeit the right to deduct anything at all, owe you the penalty above, or both. The exact consequence depends on NRS 118A.242 and whether they provided the required itemized statement. Don't assume the money is gone — a missed deadline is often the strongest fact pattern for getting it back.
Your next steps in Nevada
- Confirm the clock ran. Make sure you provided a forwarding address in writing, and that the full deadline has passed.
- Send a demand letter citing NRS 118A.242 and the 2x (twice the deposit) penalty. Most landlords pay at this stage.
- If they ignore it, file in small claims. See our walkthrough for the process.
Nevada deposit questions
How long does my Nevada landlord have to return my deposit?
30 days after termination of tenancy (or surrender/acceptance of the premises, or the tenant's eviction/abandonment). Itemized accounting required for any deductions (NRS 118A.242).
What if my landlord never sends an itemized list of deductions?
In most states — including Nevada — failing to provide the required itemized statement within the deadline forfeits the landlord's right to withhold anything. Check NRS 118A.242 for the exact rule.
Can I get more than my deposit back in Nevada?
Nevada law allows 2x (twice the deposit) for failure to return or provide the itemized accounting — up to 2x the deposit (NRS 118A.242(5)). See our penalties guide for how judges apply this.
Source: https://rapideyeinspections.com/blog/security-deposit-return-guide/ · Verified 2026-10-09