How to Write a Notice to Vacate Letter in New Hampshire

Knowing how to give proper notice when you plan to move out of a rental is vital for tenants in New Hampshire. A well-written notice to vacate not only protects your rights but also ensures a smoother transition with your landlord. Understanding the correct timeline, legal requirements, and the official forms involved will help you avoid disputes and keep your rental history positive.

What Is a Notice to Vacate?

A Notice to Vacate is a written notification from a tenant to their landlord stating your intention to leave (vacate) the rental property by a certain date. Under New Hampshire law, giving this notice properly is essential—failing to do so can result in lost security deposits or continued rent obligations.

When Should You Send a Notice to Vacate?

The timing depends on your lease:

• Month-to-month lease: New Hampshire requires tenants to give landlords at least 30 days' written notice before moving out, unless your lease says otherwise.^[1]
• Fixed-term lease: Usually, you must wait until the lease ends. However, still notify the landlord—unless your lease automatically continues ("renews").

Check your rental agreement for any additional requirements about how to deliver notice or to whom it must be sent.

What Should Your Notice Include?

• Date (when you're writing the letter)
• Your name and address of the rental property
• Landlord’s name and address
• Clear statement that you are giving notice to vacate
• The planned date you will move out (leave enough time for required notice period)
• Your forwarding address (for future correspondence and security deposit return)
• Your signature

It's always a good idea to keep a copy of the letter and proof of delivery (such as certified mail or a signed receipt).

Is There an Official Form for New Hampshire?

New Hampshire does not require a specific state-issued Notice to Vacate form for tenants. You can write your own letter using the details listed above. However, for renters who want a template or more formal documentation:

• Sample Notice to Vacate (no official NH form): No specific form is mandated, but official resources like the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Landlord/Tenant Forms offer guides and related forms.

Who Oversees Tenancy Matters in New Hampshire?

Residential tenancy issues and disputes are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court - District Division. This is where most landlord-tenant legal matters—like eviction cases—are filed and heard.

Relevant Law: New Hampshire Tenant Rights

Notice requirements are established in RSA 540, Section 2 – Termination of Tenancy, which outlines the notice a tenant must provide for ending a rental agreement.^[1] You can review the current New Hampshire landlord and tenant statutes for additional details.

How to Deliver Your Notice

• Send your notice by certified mail or another trackable method
• Alternatively, hand-deliver the letter and ask your landlord to sign and date a copy for your records
• Send it to the address specified in your lease or to your landlord’s last known address

This helps avoid misunderstandings about when notice was given.

What Happens Next?

After delivering your notice:

• Continue to pay rent and follow your lease terms until your move-out date
• Arrange a move-out inspection if possible
• Provide a forwarding address in writing for the return of your security deposit

FAQ: New Hampshire Notice to Vacate

1. How much notice do I need to give my landlord before moving out?
   Most tenants must provide at least 30 days' written notice for month-to-month leases.
2. Can my landlord require more than 30 days’ notice?
   If your lease agreement requires more than 30 days, you must follow the lease—otherwise, New Hampshire law sets the standard at 30 days.
3. Is email or texting my notice to vacate legally valid?
   Written notice should be delivered on paper, either by mail or in person. Email or text messages do not fulfill legal notice requirements.
4. What if I need to break my lease early?
   If you have a fixed-term lease, discuss options with your landlord. You may still be responsible for rent unless a valid state-approved reason applies.
5. Where do I turn for help if my landlord refuses to accept my notice?
   You can seek assistance or mediation through your local district court or state tenant resources (see below).

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Written, timely notice is required to end a tenancy in New Hampshire.
• No official state form is needed—a clearly written letter will suffice.
• Always give at least 30 days’ notice for month-to-month leases, unless your lease specifies otherwise.

Carefully following the legal process helps protect your rights and ensures a smooth move-out experience.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Department of Justice, Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau – Information and complaint forms
• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division – Handles landlord/tenant legal disputes
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Housing Rights – Free or low-cost legal support for renters
• RSA 540: Landlord and Tenant Law – Full text of official rental laws

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1. "Termination of Tenancy", RSA 540:2, New Hampshire General Court
2. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division, Official Court
3. Landlord/Tenant Forms, New Hampshire Judicial Branch
4. RSA 540 – Landlord & Tenant Act (official New Hampshire statute)

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