Clark County officials have presented a transformative bill to Nevada state lawmakers aimed at combating the alarming negligence of landlords who fail to address dangerous living conditions, endangering tenant health and safety. The newly proposed Assembly Bill 211 amends existing language and revises provisions related to substandard properties, advocating for the appointment of a health and safety receiver in certain situations.
Currently, Nevada cities and counties have limited options—either fining property owners or shutting down buildings, which risks further exacerbating the housing crisis and leaving vulnerable tenants homeless.
Assemblymember Venicia Considine, who championed this bill, argued that allowing the appointment of a receiver in Nevada would provide a necessary remedy for tenants throughout the state who endure substandard conditions, after exhausting all avenues to urge landlords to make needed changes. Even though existing laws mandate landlords to maintain habitable living environments, many choose merely to pay fines rather than rectify situations that pose serious health risks.
The bill draws inspiration from successful legislation in 20 other states, including California’s Health and Safety Code 17980.7(c), and outlines a systematic approach for Nevada counties and cities to notify landlords of code violations, along with setting firm compliance deadlines. If landlords still fail to act, municipalities can seek a court order after affording them a 30-day response period. The district court would then evaluate the conditions, and has the power to appoint a receiver to manage repairs to bring the property into compliance.
Courts would only proceed if they determine that conditions significantly jeopardize resident health and safety. Clark County officials provided compelling examples of existing properties suffering from neglect, including a 200-unit apartment complex characterized by severe, hazardous conditions. In each cited instance, officials documented shocking situations that pose immediate health risks to residents, underscoring the urgent need for legislative action.
The bill, which was met with support, is currently being considered by Nevada lawmakers.
Griswold Law: Eagerly Supporting and Empowering Communities Against Blight
Griswold Law has been appointed over 200 times as a Health and Safety Receiver in 28 different counties in the southwest region, and we passionately support efforts to promote safe and healthy living for all. Stay informed with us as we track this important piece of legislation.
