Nevada enacts rent increase cap for elderly tenants starting July 2025

Assembly Bill 280, introduced in the Nevada State Legislature on February 24, 2025, aims to regulate rental agreements and protect vulnerable tenants from excessive rent increases. The bill specifically targets landlords, prohibiting them from charging fees not explicitly outlined in rental agreements and limiting rent increases for certain tenants.

Key provisions of the bill include a cap on rent increases for existing tenants, set at no more than 10 percent during the period from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026. This protection applies to tenants who are either 62 years of age or older or rely on federal Social Security payments. The bill also clarifies that it applies to single-family residences, defined as structures with no more than four units, excluding manufactured homes.

Debate surrounding Assembly Bill 280 has highlighted concerns from both landlords and tenant advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for protecting low-income and elderly tenants from being priced out of their homes, especially in a housing market that has seen significant rent increases. Critics, however, contend that the restrictions could discourage investment in rental properties and lead to a decrease in available housing.

The economic implications of the bill are significant, as it seeks to balance the needs of tenants with the interests of landlords. Experts suggest that while the bill may provide immediate relief for vulnerable populations, it could also lead to unintended consequences, such as landlords opting to raise rents more aggressively before the bill takes effect.

Assembly Bill 280 is set to become effective in stages, with certain provisions taking effect upon passage and others starting in mid-2025. As the legislative process unfolds, the bill's potential impact on Nevada's rental market and its residents will be closely monitored.