A three-month cap that counts everything
A Nevada landlord may not demand or receive a security deposit, a surety bond, or a combination of the two, including the last month's rent, that totals more than three months' periodic rent (NRS 118A.242(1)).
Surety bonds are optional for both sides
If the landlord consents, you may buy a surety bond instead of paying all or part of the deposit. The landlord does not have to accept a bond, and may not require you to buy one (NRS 118A.242(2)–(3)). If you dispute an item in the landlord's accounting, you may send a written response to the surety. If you do so within 30 days after receiving the accounting, the surety may not report the landlord's claim to a credit reporting agency unless it obtains a judgment against you.
What can be claimed, and 30 days
The landlord may claim only what is reasonably necessary to cover unpaid rent, to repair damage you caused beyond normal wear, and to pay the reasonable costs of cleaning. No later than 30 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must give you an itemized written accounting and return the rest. It may hand the refund to you at the place where rent is paid or mail it to your present or last known address.
"Non-refundable" clauses
Apart from a reasonable non-refundable cleaning charge, a lease may not label any deposit non-refundable or waive your rights under this section. Such clauses are void (NRS 118A.242(8)). Your claim to the deposit also takes priority over the landlord's other creditors. Our calculator counts 30 days.
Steps to recover a Nevada deposit
- Check that the total, including last month's rent and any bond, did not exceed three months.
- Leave a forwarding address.
- Count 30 days.
- Dispute any surety claim in writing within 30 days of the accounting.
- If that fails, file a claim in small claims court.
Neighboring states
California caps deposits at one month, Arizona at 1.5 months. Utah and Oregon have no cap.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum security deposit in Nevada?
Three months' rent, counting last month's rent and any surety bond.
How long does a Nevada landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days after the tenancy ends, with an itemized written accounting.
Can I use a surety bond instead of a deposit in Nevada?
Yes, if the landlord agrees. The landlord cannot require one.
What is the penalty in Nevada?
The entire deposit plus a court-set sum of up to the entire deposit again.
Sources
Last reviewed Oct 17, 2026. Read how we verify. Found an error? Tell us.