This bill amends the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in Nebraska by introducing new regulations regarding fees that landlords can charge tenants. Specifically, it prohibits landlords from requiring any fees, charges, or reimbursements from tenants or prospective tenants, with certain exceptions. These exceptions include rent as specified in the rental agreement, security deposits, fees for returned payments due to insufficient funds, late fees capped at five percent or fifty dollars, and application fees limited to the actual cost of obtaining a consumer report. Additionally, the bill mandates that landlords provide written receipts for application fees, disclose the total cost of rent including any mandatory and optional fees before an application is submitted, and ensure that all fees are documented in a signed rental agreement.

Furthermore, the bill establishes enforcement mechanisms under the Consumer Protection Act, allowing aggrieved tenants or the Attorney General to take civil action against landlords who violate these provisions. Landlords who knowingly breach these regulations may face civil penalties of up to three hundred dollars per violation, along with court costs and attorney's fees. The bill aims to enhance transparency and fairness in rental agreements, ensuring that tenants are fully informed of any costs associated with renting a property.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 76-1401