NH · Tenant rights
Tenant Rights in New Hampshire
A plain-English overview of residential renter protections under New Hampshire Landlord and Tenant Law (RSA 540 / 540-A). Use this as a checklist before you sign — then verify anything that looks off in your specific lease.
Key rules at a glance
- Security deposit return: 30 days after tenancy ends
- Landlord entry notice: Reasonable notice; RSA 540-A addresses prohibited practices
- Late fees: Late fees must be reasonable; New Hampshire also restricts certain landlord self-help practices.
What to check in a New Hampshire lease
- Deposit return within 30 days
- Prohibited landlord practices (RSA 540-A)
- Heat and utility shutoff rules
- Eviction notice types
Frequently asked questions
What is RSA 540-A?
RSA 540-A covers prohibited landlord practices such as unlawful lockouts and interference with utilities — important protections beyond the lease text.
Before you sign
Statutes set the floor — your lease can still include junk fees, auto-renewals, one-sided indemnification, or deposit language that conflicts with New Hampshire law. Comparing the document to RSA 540 / 540-A is the fastest way to spot problems early.
LeaseGuard.ai provides educational information only and is not a law firm. This page is not legal advice. For disputes or case-specific interpretation, contact a licensed New Hampshire attorney or your local legal aid office.
Also see our lease guides for clause-by-clause renter tips.