How to File a Complaint Against Your Landlord in NH

Dealing with landlord problems in New Hampshire can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing unresolved maintenance requests, unfair rent increases, or an improper eviction notice, you have rights as a renter under New Hampshire law. Understanding how to file a complaint against your landlord is the first step to protecting yourself and improving your living conditions.

Understanding Your Rights as a Renter in New Hampshire

Renters in New Hampshire are protected by the New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and related state regulations. These laws outline your fundamental rights, including your right to a safe, habitable home, proper eviction processes, and protection from discrimination.

Common Reasons to File a Complaint

It’s important to know when it’s appropriate to file a complaint against your landlord. Common reasons include:

• Unaddressed repairs or unsafe living conditions
• Improper eviction procedures or notices
• Unlawful rent increases or fee charges
• Discrimination based on race, disability, family status, or other protected characteristics

Before submitting a formal complaint, try to resolve the issue directly by communicating in writing with your landlord. Keep copies of all correspondence and document dates and issues thoroughly.

Where to File Your Complaint

For most landlord-tenant issues in New Hampshire, renters can seek help from the following authorities and tribunals:

• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division: Handles disputes such as eviction, security deposit issues, and habitability concerns.
• NH Department of Justice Civil Rights Unit: Investigates housing discrimination complaints.
• NH Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau: Addresses unfair or deceptive landlord practices.

Official Forms for Filing a Complaint

1. Landlord/Tenant Petition for Possession (NHJB-2331-DP)

Purpose: Used by landlords to start an eviction lawsuit, but tenants can use it to respond to an improper eviction.
How to Use: If you believe you have received an unlawful eviction notice, you may be served this petition and should respond accordingly. Download the official NHJB-2331-DP form here.

2. Tenant Complaint to the NH Attorney General/Consumer Protection

Purpose: To report the landlord for unfair, deceptive, or illegal business practices, including security deposit violations.
How to Use: Fill out and submit the NH Consumer Complaint Form if your landlord violates your rights or acts unlawfully. Example: Your landlord does not return your security deposit within 30 days of your moving out.

3. Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Purpose: For tenants who experience discrimination based on protected class status (race, disability, etc.)
How to Use: Submit your complaint online or via mail to the NH DOJ Civil Rights Unit Housing Complaint page with detailed information and any evidence.

Step-by-Step: How to File a Complaint as a Renter

Here’s a summary of what to do if you need to make a complaint against your landlord in New Hampshire:

• Document the issue and your attempts to resolve it with your landlord.
• Determine which authority is appropriate for your concern (court, Civil Rights Unit, or Consumer Protection Bureau).
• Gather evidence such as photographs, emails, lease agreements, and repair requests.
• Complete the required official form or contact the tribunal. Follow instructions carefully and provide all necessary information.
• Keep a copy of your complaint and any correspondence for your records.

What to Expect After Filing

After filing a complaint, you may be contacted for more information, or directed to attend a hearing or mediation. For court-based complaints (such as evictions), the court will schedule a hearing where both you and your landlord can present your cases.

Results may include a requirement for your landlord to make repairs, cease unlawful actions, or compensate you for damages.

FAQ: New Hampshire Renter Complaints

1. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
   Withholding rent in New Hampshire is risky, as state law does not always allow it unless very specific conditions are met. Always seek legal advice first, and notify your landlord of repairs in writing.
2. How quickly must my landlord return my security deposit?
   New Hampshire law requires landlords to return your security deposit within 30 days of lease termination, minus any allowable deductions.
3. Will filing a complaint protect me from eviction?
   Filing a complaint does not automatically stop an eviction process. However, if the eviction is retaliatory or unlawful, the court may protect your rights.
4. Where can I find more tenant resources and legal forms?
   You can visit the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Forms page for court forms and the New Hampshire Legal Assistance for legal help.
5. What should I do if I face housing discrimination?
   Submit a complaint to the NH DOJ Civil Rights Unit and keep records of all incidents and communications.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division (Main tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes)
• NH Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau
• NH Department of Justice Civil Rights Unit – Housing Discrimination
• New Hampshire Legal Assistance
• NH Courts – Forms and Instructions

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1. New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division
3. NH Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau
4. NH DOJ Civil Rights Unit: Housing Discrimination
5. New Hampshire Courts Forms

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