Lease Addendums to Watch Out for in New Hampshire Rentals

Moving into a new rental home is exciting, but in New Hampshire, it’s important to read every detail of your lease—including the addendums. Many renters overlook these add-ons, but they can significantly change your rights and daily experience. Understanding what common lease addendums mean can help avoid surprises and protect your interests as a tenant in the Granite State.

Understanding Lease Addendums in New Hampshire

A lease addendum is an extra document attached to your lease. It changes or adds to the terms of your main rental agreement. Landlords use addendums for specific rules—think pet policies, parking, or maintenance responsibilities. Once signed, lease addendums are legally binding, just like the rest of your lease.

Why They Matter for Renters

• Change your obligations: Some addendums may require you to pay extra deposits, follow new rules, or take on more responsibilities.
• Affect your rights: Others may limit how you use the property or even impact how you can end your lease.

Being aware of these extras before you sign helps you avoid unexpected costs or restrictions later on.

Common Lease Addendums in New Hampshire—What to Watch For

Here are some frequent addendums New Hampshire landlords may include, along with tips on what they mean for you:

• Lead Paint Disclosure Addendum: Federal law requires landlords of properties built before 1978 to provide a lead-based paint disclosure form if the property may contain lead paint. You should receive a copy, sign it, and keep it for your records. This addendum helps protect renter health—especially for families with young children.
• Pet Policy Addendum: This outlines rules on pet ownership (allowed species, number, fees, pet deposits, or breed restrictions). Review carefully if you have pets or plan to get one!
• Maintenance Responsibility Addendum: Details which repairs and upkeep you’re responsible for versus the landlord. For example, snow removal or lawn care may be assigned to you via this addendum. In New Hampshire, landlords must still keep rentals habitable, as detailed in the New Hampshire Residential Landlord-Tenant Act^[1].
• Smoking Policy Addendum: States whether smoking is allowed inside units or on the property. Breaking this rule can be grounds for eviction.
• Renter’s Insurance Requirement Addendum: Some landlords ask for proof of renter’s insurance through an addendum. Make sure you understand coverage and deadlines for providing documentation.
• Entry and Inspection Notice Addendum: Explains how much notice your landlord must give before entering your rental. State law usually requires “reasonable” notice, but an addendum can clarify timing or reasons for entry.
• Parking or Storage Addendum: Sets out rules for using parking spaces or storage areas, including fees or restrictions.

Always compare the main lease and any addendums to make sure you agree with all terms. If there’s a conflict, clarify with your landlord or seek advice before signing.

Official Forms Renters Should Know

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
  
  • Name/Number: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (No NH-specific number; uses federal form)
  • When/How Used: Required when renting any property built before 1978. The landlord must provide it before signing the lease. For example, if you are about to move into an older apartment, the landlord gives you this form to disclose any knowledge of lead hazards, and you sign to confirm receipt.
  • View the EPA Lead Disclosure Form
• New Hampshire Security Deposit Dispute Form
  
  • Name/Number: NH Small Claims Complaint (NHJC Form NHJB-2301-S)
  • When/How Used: If you believe a lease addendum led to unfair deductions from your security deposit, you can file this form in small claims court after attempting to resolve it with your landlord. For example, after moving out, your landlord withholds funds based on a maintenance addendum that you believe was improperly applied.
  • Download Small Claims Forms from the NH Judicial Branch

The Official Tribunal for Tenant-Landlord Issues

In New Hampshire, rental disputes are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court - District Division. You can find their contact details, procedures, and more about filing a complaint at their official website.

What to Do If You Disagree with an Addendum

If you spot an addendum you’re uncomfortable with, don’t feel pressured to sign. You can:

• Ask your landlord to explain or modify terms
• Cross out and initial any terms you disagree with (before signing; landlord must also agree)
• Seek legal advice or talk to a renters’ resource before signing

For more on tenant protections and obligations in the state, review the New Hampshire RSA 540-A and look for updates from the New Hampshire Department of Justice.

FAQs: Lease Addendums for New Hampshire Renters

1. Do I have to sign every lease addendum my landlord gives me?
   No, you do not. You can negotiate the terms, and you should only sign if you agree with all conditions. Discuss changes with your landlord or contact tenant services if unsure.
2. What happens if an addendum contradicts my main lease?
   It may cause confusion. Speak to your landlord before signing, and always get clarifications in writing. If a dispute arises, the courts will decide which document prevails, often based on order signed or specificity of the term.
3. Can a landlord add a new addendum after I move in?
   Generally, no terms (including addendums) can be changed in the middle of a fixed-term lease without your written agreement, unless the lease states otherwise. Month-to-month leases may allow updates with proper notice under state law.
4. Are pet fees and deposits allowed under New Hampshire law?
   Yes, landlords can charge pet-related fees or deposits, often detailed in a pet addendum. The sum added to the security deposit must not exceed one month's rent under RSA 540-A:6.
5. Where can I get a copy of my signed lease and addendums?
   Your landlord is required to provide you a copy. If not, request one in writing immediately. This can help in case of a dispute.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Always ask for and review all lease addendums before signing your lease in New Hampshire.
• Understand each addendum’s impact on your rights—especially regarding maintenance, pets, and insurance.
• If you don’t agree with a term, negotiate or seek assistance before signing.

Staying informed helps you avoid future headaches and protects your security as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Department of Justice – Tenant Rights: Official guide to tenant protections and housing rules in the state.
• NH Circuit Court - District Division: For filing disputes about leases and addendums.
• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority – Renters: Information on rental assistance and landlord-tenant laws.
• New Hampshire Legal Aid: Free legal guidance for income-eligible renters.

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1. New Hampshire Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RSA 540-A)
2. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements
3. NH Judicial Branch – Small Claims Forms

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