Illegal Lockouts and Utility Shutoffs
Lockouts
Only a Sheriff or Constable can lock you out of your dwelling. A Sheriff or Constable will conduct a lockout only when a judge orders an eviction. A private individual, such as a landlord, cannot conduct a lockout without a Sheriff or Constable.
Under NRS 118A.390, you must file a complaint for expedited relief due to the lockout within five judicial days after being locked out. You will receive a hearing within three judicial days after filing. If the court agrees that the landlord unlawfully locked you out, the court may: (a) order your landlord to restore your access to the premises, (b) award you damages, including $2,500 in statutory damages, and (c) order your landlord from locking you out against the risk of contempt of court.
Utility Shut-Offs
NRS 118A.390 also prohibits a landlord from intentionally interrupting an essential items or service, such as door locks, power or water service. You must file a complaint for expedited relief based on the lack of essential services within five judicial days after your landlord turns off or takes away the essential service or item. You will receive a hearing within three judicial days after filing. If the court agrees that the landlord unlawfully turned off the essential service, the court may: (a) order your landlord to restore your access to the essential service, (b) award you damages, including $2,500 in statutory damages, and (c) order your landlord from turning off the essential service at the risk of contempt of court.
Upcoming Events and Videos on YouTube
Nevada Legal Services provides free legal education to the public. Please visit our Events calendar to find an online seminar or a class near you. Please also visit our YouTube channel Nevada Legal Services Now! to watch our educational videos.