What is the security deposit limit in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire limits deposits to 1 month rent or $100, whichever is greater. For deposits held over 1 year, interest must accrue.

What notice is required for landlord entry in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire has no statutory entry notice requirement. Negotiate at least 24-hour notice into your lease.

Does New Hampshire have rent control?

No. New Hampshire has no rent control laws.

How long does a New Hampshire landlord have to return a security deposit?

30 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions and interest accounting.

What is New Hampshire's rental market like?

New Hampshire's proximity to Boston has driven high demand and rents, particularly in Nashua and Manchester. The state has no income tax, attracting remote workers. This demand has given landlords significant leverage.

New Hampshire Tenant Rights & Lease Laws

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit Varies

Return Deadline 30 days after move-out

Interest Required No

Notice Requirements

Landlord Entry Notice 24 hours

Lease Termination Notice (Month-to-Month) 30 days

Rent Increase Notice 30 days

Auto-renewal clauses in a market where rents have risen 15–25% since 2020 — locking into another year at market rate is significantly more expensive than it was. Portsmouth commercial leases in historic buildings with unusual restoration and modification restrictions.

Rent Control

Rent Control: No statewide rent control

Habitability & Repair Requirements

New Hampshire landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition. New Hampshire is moderately tenant-protective with a deposit cap and entry notice requirements. The market shift from Boston migration has made practical tenant leverage minimal despite the legal framework.

Eviction Process

Manchester and Nashua are the largest markets, both heavily influenced by Boston Metro spillover. Residential vacancy in Manchester is under 3%. The commercial market in Nashua and Manchester has benefited from Boston companies opening satellite offices. Portsmouth is a premium market due to waterfront appeal and proximity to Boston.

Tenant Protections & Notable Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security deposit limit in New Hampshire?: New Hampshire limits deposits to 1 month rent or $100, whichever is greater. For deposits held over 1 year, interest must accrue.
What notice is required for landlord entry in New Hampshire?: New Hampshire has no statutory entry notice requirement. Negotiate at least 24-hour notice into your lease.
Does New Hampshire have rent control?: No. New Hampshire has no rent control laws.
How long does a New Hampshire landlord have to return a security deposit?: 30 days from move-out with an itemized list of deductions and interest accounting.
What is New Hampshire's rental market like?: New Hampshire's proximity to Boston has driven high demand and rents, particularly in Nashua and Manchester. The state has no income tax, attracting remote workers. This demand has given landlords significant leverage.

Cities in New Hampshire

Find city-specific lease guides for major markets in New Hampshire: