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[NV] Can a landlord deduct lock replacement costs from a security deposit that wasn’t returned within 30 days?
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I live in Las Vegas, NV. My former landlord failed to return my deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of my move out date. After 30 days, I emailed the former landlord asking for the return of the deposit. The landlord did not reply. 08/31/26 will be a year that I moved. On July 7, 2026, the landlord received my formal demand letter requesting return of the deposit. This morning 07/10/26 the landlord sent me a text stating receipt of the formal demand letter. Landlord stated he gets paid on July 16th and that only a portion of the deposit will be returned to me. The landlord stated funds are being deducted for cost of changing the locks. The deposit was $750, landlord is deducting $170 for changing locks. My question: Can the landlord deduct? Do I have rights to pursue the full $750 security deposit?
I understand how frustrating it can be to deal with issues regarding your security deposit. Have you documented all communications with your former landlord regarding the deposit and any deductions?
Yes.
Did you receive any written notice or agreement about potential deductions for changing the locks when you moved in or during your tenancy?
Yes.
Is there anything else the Landlord-Tenant Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your deposit dispute.
No.
Hello. My name is Richard and I have been a licensed attorney for over 25 years and hope to be of assistance. I understand you're dealing with a situation where your former landlord is deducting costs for changing locks from your security deposit. Disclaimer: Just a note, this conversation does not create an attorney-client relationship. I can answer your questions for educational purposes only.
Hello Richard, I need to know if my situation is an issue to pursue through small claims court. Should I provide you the details that were provided through the initial chat?
Did your lease agreement include any specific terms about deductions for changing locks or similar charges? This could help clarify if the landlord's deduction is justified.
Regarding your question about pursuing this issue through small claims court, here's a detailed breakdown of your options:
- Review Lease Agreement. Check your lease agreement for any clauses related to security deposit deductions, especially concerning lock changes. If the lease doesn't specify this deduction, you may have grounds to dispute it.
- Understand Nevada Law. In Nevada, landlords must return the security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of the lease ending. Since your landlord failed to do this, they may have violated state law.
- Document Everything. Keep all communications with your landlord, including emails, texts, and the formal demand letter. This documentation will be crucial if you decide to take legal action.
- Send a Final Demand Letter. Consider sending another formal letter to your landlord, reiterating your request for the full deposit and citing Nevada law. Mention that you are prepared to take legal action if necessary.
- Consider Small Claims Court. If the landlord does not respond or refuses to return the full deposit, you can file a claim in small claims court. In Nevada, you can sue for up to $10,000, which covers your deposit amount.
- Prepare for Court. Gather all your evidence, including the lease agreement, communications, and any relevant laws. Be ready to present your case clearly and concisely.
- Consult an Attorney. If you're unsure about any step, consulting with a local attorney can provide clarity and ensure you're taking the right actions.
Please let me know if you have further questions.
I don't know. After I moved out I could not find my copy of the rental agreement. I sent the landlord a formal demand letter asking for return of the deposit and a copy of the rental agreement. This morning 07/10/26 the landlord sent me a text stating receipt of the formal demand letter and stated he gets paid on July 16th and that only a portion of the deposit will be returned to me as we agreed. I am guessing that clause is in the rental agreement because it was a standard online template agreement. What I am questioning is Nevada Security Deposit Rules. This is what I researched through AI: 30-Day Deadline: Under NRS 118A.242, your landlord was legally required to return your deposit or send an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of you vacating the room. Double Damages Penalty: Because they blew past this deadline and ignored your follow-up, you can sue them for up to twice the amount of the security deposit in court.
I moved out Aug 31st, 2025.
Under Nevada law, specifically (NV Rev Stat § 118A.242), landlords are required to return a tenant's security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days after the tenant vacates the property. If the landlord fails to comply with this requirement, they may be liable for damages.
Additionally, Nevada law allows tenants to pursue additional damages if the landlord wrongfully withholds the security deposit. This means that if the landlord did not provide the deposit or an itemized list of deductions within the specified timeframe, you might be entitled to sue for damages beyond the deposit amount itself. NRS 118A.242 also works alongside (NV Rev Stat § 118A.200), which sets out the general obligations landlords have with respect to holding and accounting for security deposits, and can support an argument that the deposit should be treated as belonging to the tenant absent a timely, itemized accounting.
The fact that your landlord acknowledged receipt of your formal demand letter but still intends to deduct for lock changes without prior agreement could further support your claim.
Let me know if you have any questions or clarifications.
I do have a clarification question. I am just not sure how to phrase it. May I have a minute to gather my thoughts?
I understand your frustration, and I'm sorry to hear that you feel this way. I'm happy to continue trying to help you with your landlord-tenant issue! Let me know!
I read through everything you sent a second time. I am not frustrated and you did help, a lot. Right now it just feels overwhelming because I struggle with conflict. However, thanks to what you have provided, I will pursue full reimbursement of the security deposit. It's the principle of the matter. The landlord blew me off for a year with no intention whatsoever to return the deposit. Thank you for giving me the boost I needed. I appreciate you.
I'm really glad to hear that you found the information helpful. It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, but you're taking a strong step by standing up for what's right. If you need any more guidance or support along the way, feel free to reach out. You've got this, and I'm here to help if you need it. Take care and best of luck with everything!
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