Locked Out By The Landlord
NRS 118A.390 — a complaint within 5 judicial days, a hearing within 3, and up to $2,500 besides damages
A landlord who unlawfully removes a tenant, blocks the tenant's entry, or willfully interrupts an essential item or service the rental agreement or the chapter requires, is answerable in court. The tenant may recover possession, end the agreement and get back all prepaid rent and the recoverable deposit, and recover actual damages, an amount the court fixes of not more than $2,500, or both.
The fast route back in. A tenant can file a verified complaint for expedited relief. It has to be filed within 5 judicial days after the landlord's act or it is dismissed, though other remedies remain. The court holds a hearing not later than 3 judicial days after filing, and can order the premises or services restored and award damages.
The tenant's court costs and fees are deferred, and at the end the court assesses them against whichever side does not prevail, unless it reduces or waives them. In fixing the amount awarded, the court weighs the landlord's good faith, the course of dealing, and the harm done.
Sources for this section (1)
- NRS 118A.390 — Unlawful removal or exclusion of tenant or willful interruption of essential items or services
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Nevada attorney.