Short answer: In Nebraska, your landlord's policy doesn't cover your belongings or liability. Under Neb. Rev. Stat. §76-1416, a landlord can't take security of more than one month's rent, plus a pet deposit of up to one-fourth of a month's rent when appropriate. Within 14 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must deliver or mail the balance with a written itemization. If the failure is willful and not in good faith, you may also recover liquidated damages.
This guide is general information for Nebraska renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.
Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.
Step 1: Deposit caps
Under Neb. Rev. Stat. §76-1416, security can't exceed one month's periodic rent. A pet deposit of up to ¼ month's rent may be charged when appropriate. Housing agencies under the Nebraska Housing Agency Act are excepted.
Step 2: The 14-day return
- At the end of the tenancy, the landlord may apply the deposit to rent and damages from your noncompliance.
- The balance and a written itemization must be delivered or mailed within 14 days after the tenancy ends.
- If you don't give a mailing address, the landlord mails it first class to your last known address. Undeliverable or uncashed balances eventually go to the State Treasurer as unclaimed property.
Step 3: Remedies
If the landlord doesn't comply, you may recover the money due, court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. If the failure is willful and not in good faith, you may also recover the lesser of one month's rent or twice the deposit as liquidated damages.
Step 4: Storms
Nebraska renters face tornadoes, hail and blizzards. Renters insurance typically covers belongings for wind and hail damage and frozen-pipe water damage. Flood is generally excluded; see FloodSmart.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Nebraska.
Frequently asked questions
What's the maximum security deposit in Nebraska?
One month's rent, plus up to a quarter-month pet deposit, under Neb. Rev. Stat. §76-1416.
How long does a Nebraska landlord have to return my deposit?
Within 14 days after the tenancy ends, with a written itemization.
What if a Nebraska landlord willfully keeps my deposit?
You may recover the lesser of one month's rent or twice the deposit as liquidated damages, plus costs and fees.
What happens to an unclaimed Nebraska deposit?
It can be reported to the State Treasurer as unclaimed property.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.