Landlord Showings During Move-Out in New Hampshire

When you’re preparing to move out of your rental in New Hampshire, the process can feel overwhelming—especially if your landlord asks to show the apartment to new tenants or buyers while you’re packing. Understanding your rights under New Hampshire law is essential to ensure your privacy and a smooth move-out process.

Understanding Entry Rules in New Hampshire

New Hampshire law allows landlords to enter rental units for certain reasons, including showing the apartment to prospective tenants or buyers. However, these entries are subject to limits designed to protect your privacy.

Notice Requirements

• Landlord must give "reasonable" advance notice before entry. The law does not specify an exact timeframe, but at least 24 hours is common practice.
• Entry must occur at reasonable times—typically during normal business hours, unless you agree otherwise.
• Entry is only allowed for legitimate reasons, such as showing the unit to prospective new renters, purchasers, or contractors.

The law that governs this process is New Hampshire RSA 540-A:3, which outlines both landlord entry and tenant rights to quiet enjoyment.^[1]

Your Rights When Landlords Want to Show the Apartment

• Landlords cannot enter repeatedly or in a harassing manner.
• If you are home, you can request to be present during showings.
• You may ask for specific dates and times that are least disruptive to your packing or schedule.
• Your landlord must not enter without notice except in emergencies (such as a fire or serious water leak).

Tip: If you feel your landlord is entering without proper notice or too frequently, document each instance and communicate your concerns in writing.

How to Respond if Your Landlord Wants to Schedule Showings

You have the right to negotiate times that are reasonable for you. If the suggested times disrupt your packing or work schedule, communicate alternative options to your landlord in writing.

• Ask for 24-hour written notice for all non-emergency entries.
• Keep all correspondence for your records, in case of a dispute.
• If disagreements persist, you may contact the New Hampshire Circuit Court (Landlord and Tenant Division), which handles tenancy disputes. See their official information page.

No Official Entry Notice Form—What to Expect

New Hampshire does not have a specific state-issued form for landlord entry notice. Most landlords use a written note, letter, or email stating the date, time, and purpose of entry. Always ensure any notice you receive includes these details and keep a copy for your records.

What to Do if Entry Rules Are Violated

If your landlord enters without proper notice, refuses to respect reasonable requests, or enters in a harassing manner, you may take these steps:

• Document each incident with date, time, and details.
• Send a written request to your landlord, referencing RSA 540-A:3, and ask them to comply with legal requirements.
• If issues persist, file a complaint with the New Hampshire Circuit Court’s Landlord and Tenant Division. Court forms and instructions are available on their self-help portal.

Respectful communication often resolves most issues. However, persistent violations can be addressed legally to protect your right to peaceful enjoyment and privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord show the apartment while I am still living there and packing?
   If you are still residing in your unit, your landlord may show the apartment to prospective tenants or buyers, but only after giving you reasonable notice and at reasonable times.
2. What should I do if my landlord shows up without notice?
   Document the incident immediately and remind your landlord in writing about New Hampshire’s entry notice requirements.
3. Do I have to let my landlord in if the time isn’t convenient?
   You are entitled to request a more convenient time as long as it’s reasonable. Open communication is encouraged to find a suitable arrangement.
4. Is 24-hour notice always required?
   The law in New Hampshire requires "reasonable" notice, which is often interpreted as 24 hours but could vary depending on the situation.
5. Where can I file a formal complaint about improper entry?
   You can file complaints at the New Hampshire Circuit Court (Landlord and Tenant Division) or contact the state’s Consumer Protection Bureau for advice and support.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords must provide reasonable notice and enter only at reasonable times to show your apartment.
• You can negotiate showing times and request to be present during showings.
• If your landlord does not follow entry laws, keep records and contact the New Hampshire Circuit Court's Landlord and Tenant Division or the Consumer Protection Bureau for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court, Landlord and Tenant Division – handles rental disputes and complaints
• New Hampshire Housing Renter Resource Guide – resources and legal aid contacts
• NH Department of Justice Consumer Protection Bureau – handles reports of landlord misconduct and improper entry
• RSA 540-A:3 – Entry and Tenant Rights Legislation

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1. See New Hampshire RSA 540-A:3 for the specific statute on landlord entry and tenant protections.
2. Entry disputes are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court, Landlord and Tenant Division.
3. For official complaint process details, visit the NH Department of Justice Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau.

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