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Tenant Rights in Nebraska

A comprehensive guide to your rights as a renter in Nebraska. Covers security deposits, eviction procedures, rent control, repair obligations, and when to get legal help.

Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Security deposit max: 1 month's rent (no pets) or 1.25 months' rent (with pets)..
  • Return deadline: 14 days after the tenancy ends..
  • Rent control: No.
  • Repair and deduct: Allowed.
1 month's rent (no pets) or 1.25 months' rent (with pets). Security deposit maximum
14 days after the tenancy ends. Deposit return deadline
No Statewide rent control
Required Judicial eviction

Security Deposits

  • Maximum amount1 month's rent (no pets) or 1.25 months' rent (with pets).
  • Return deadline14 days after the tenancy ends.

Landlord may deduct for unpaid rent and damages beyond normal wear and tear. Must provide a written itemized statement within 14 days.

Eviction Process

  • Notice requirements3-day notice for nonpayment of rent. 14-day notice for lease violations (with 14-day cure period). 30-day notice for termination of month-to-month tenancy.
  • Judicial eviction requiredYes
  • Estimated timeline2 to 4 weeks for uncontested cases.

Rent Control

Nebraska has no rent control laws. State law does not preempt local rent control, but no jurisdiction has enacted it.

Repair and Habitability

  • Repair and deductAllowed
  • Rent withholdingAllowed
  • Retaliation protectionYes

Lease Termination

  • Month-to-month notice30 days' written notice by either party.

Tenant may be liable for remaining rent. Landlord must make reasonable efforts to re-rent. Military members may terminate under the SCRA.

Key Statutes

  • Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 76-1401 to 76-1449
  • Security Deposits: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1416
  • Landlord Obligations: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1419
  • Tenant Remedies: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1425 to 76-1427
  • Retaliation: Neb. Rev. Stat. § 76-1439

When to Get Legal Help

  • You're facing eviction, especially with short notice
  • Your landlord is withholding a large security deposit
  • You believe you're being discriminated against
  • Your unit has serious habitability issues the landlord refuses to fix

Find free legal aid in Nebraska

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the security deposit limit in Nebraska?

    Nebraska limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (or 1.25 months' rent if the tenant has pets). The deposit must be returned within 14 days after the tenancy ends.

  • Can I withhold rent for repairs in Nebraska?

    Yes. Under the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, tenants may withhold rent or use the repair-and-deduct remedy after giving the landlord written notice and a reasonable time to cure habitability defects.

  • How much notice is required for eviction for nonpayment in Nebraska?

    A landlord must give a 3-day notice for nonpayment. If the tenant does not pay within the 3-day period, the landlord may file an eviction action in county court.

  • Does Nebraska have retaliation protections?

    Yes. Nebraska law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who exercise their legal rights, report housing violations, or join tenant organizations.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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