This bill amends the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in Nebraska, specifically sections 76-1425 and 76-1427, to modify the procedures and timelines for tenants to terminate rental agreements due to landlord noncompliance. The bill reduces the notice period for termination from thirty days to fourteen days, and the time allowed for landlords to remedy breaches is shortened from fourteen days to seven days. Additionally, if a similar breach occurs within six months, tenants can terminate the rental agreement with just seven days' notice. The bill also clarifies that tenants may recover damages and obtain injunctive relief for landlord noncompliance, with provisions for attorney's fees if the noncompliance is willful.

Furthermore, the bill expands tenant remedies in cases where landlords fail to provide essential services, such as running water or heat, and introduces new provisions for tenants to address known mold problems or pest infestations. Tenants can now deduct costs for procuring essential services or for remediation from their rent. The bill also allows tenants to recover damages based on the diminished value of their personal property due to landlord negligence. Overall, these changes aim to enhance tenant protections and streamline the process for addressing landlord noncompliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 76-1425, 76-1427