Are landlords legally required to maintain fire sprinklers in New Hampshire?

Yes, landlords must maintain and inspect required sprinkler systems to ensure tenant safety under New Hampshire law.

How do I know if my apartment should have sprinklers?

Multi-unit apartment buildings built after certain dates are usually required to have sprinklers; confirm with your landlord or local fire department.

What should I do if my landlord ignores fire sprinkler issues?

Notify your landlord in writing, then report issues to your local fire department or code enforcement office if not resolved.

Do renters have to pay for fire sprinkler repairs?

No. Sprinkler system maintenance and repairs are the landlord's responsibility.

Can I withhold rent if fire sprinklers aren't maintained?

Rent withholding for habitability issues can be risky; seek legal guidance before withholding rent in New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Fire Sprinkler Inspection Laws: A Renter’s Guide

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections New Hampshire published June 21, 2025

As a renter in New Hampshire, understanding your rights regarding fire sprinkler inspections is vital for your safety and peace of mind. State law outlines who is responsible for sprinkler maintenance, how often inspections are required, and what you can do if you’re concerned about building safety. This article will clarify the essentials, guide you to official resources, and explain what steps renters can take in New Hampshire if fire safety systems may not be up to standard.

Fire Sprinkler Systems in Rental Properties: What Renters Should Know

Fire sprinkler systems play a key role in protecting residents and property from the dangers of fire. In New Hampshire, most multi-unit apartment buildings and rental complexes are required to have fire detection and suppression systems, including sprinklers, depending on the age and construction of the building. Not every rental will have sprinklers, but where they are required, regular inspections are mandated for your safety.

Who Is Responsible for Fire Sprinkler Inspections?

Under New Hampshire law, the landlord or property owner is responsible for ensuring fire sprinkler systems are installed, properly maintained, and inspected as required by the state and local fire code. Inspections typically must be performed by a licensed fire protection contractor.

Landlords must follow inspection and maintenance schedules published in the New Hampshire State Fire Code (RSA 153).
Records of inspections are usually kept by the landlord and may be requested by local fire officials.

If you suspect sprinklers are not being maintained or tested, you have the right to bring up your concerns for your own safety and that of your neighbors.

How Often Do Inspections Occur?

Most sprinkler systems in New Hampshire must be inspected annually by a qualified professional. Additional or more frequent checks may be required following repairs, renovations, or as determined by local fire departments based on building risk.

Annual inspections check for leaks, blockages, test system alarms, and signage.
Defective or inoperable systems must be repaired promptly by the owner.

What to Do if You’re Concerned About Fire Sprinkler Safety

If you notice covered or damaged sprinkler heads, hear alarms regularly, or believe inspections are being skipped, you should act for your safety:

Start by notifying your landlord in writing. Explain your concern about the sprinkler system, referencing any visible issues or the inspection schedule.
If the landlord doesn’t respond promptly or address the issue, contact your local fire department for an inspection or guidance. Fire departments can cite landlords for code violations.
For ongoing issues affecting your safety or tenancy, renters can also reach out to the New Hampshire Department of Justice – Landlord/Tenant Section.

If needed, you can request an official code enforcement review in your municipality. Each city or town often has a "Building or Code Enforcement Office" for such requests.

Relevant Official Forms: Requesting Inspection or Lodging a Complaint

Fire Code Complaint Form (local name and availability may vary):
Used by renters to notify authorities of fire safety code concerns in a rental unit, including missing or malfunctioning sprinkler systems. Submit this form to your city/town’s Fire Department or Code Enforcement Office. For example, the City of Manchester's Fire Risk Complaint Form can be filed online.
Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form:
If fire safety issues are part of a larger landlord-tenant dispute (such as eviction related to complaints), the New Hampshire Department of Justice Landlord/Tenant Complaint Form can be submitted by mail or online. This agency can mediate and educate both parties when safety is in question.

Always keep records of your communications and complaints for your protection.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Issues in New Hampshire?

Disputes over habitability, including failure to maintain fire safety systems, may escalate to court. In New Hampshire, small claims and landlord-tenant cases are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division, which oversees eviction hearings and housing-related claims.

Tip: If urgent safety issues are ignored, your local fire department can order emergency repairs or declare a unit unsafe for occupancy until corrections are made.

FAQ: Fire Sprinklers and Tenant Safety in New Hampshire

Are landlords legally required to maintain fire sprinklers in New Hampshire?
Yes, when sprinklers are required by law or local ordinance, landlords are legally responsible for maintaining and inspecting these systems regularly to protect tenant safety.
How do I know if my apartment should have sprinklers?
Most modern multi-unit buildings must have them. Older or single-unit homes may be exempt. Check with your landlord or local fire department to confirm your building’s requirements.
What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide inspection records or fix the sprinkler system?
Document your request in writing. If unresolved, contact your local fire marshal or city code enforcement. You can also escalate the complaint to the New Hampshire Department of Justice Landlord/Tenant Section.
Do I have to pay for fire sprinkler repairs as a renter?
No. State and local law assign this responsibility to the landlord or property owner. Renters are not required to pay for repairs or routine inspections of fire protection systems.
Can I withhold rent until fire safety issues are fixed?
This is a complex legal area. In some urgent, documented cases, renters may have rights to withhold rent for unresolved habitability violations, but always seek legal advice or court approval before taking this step in New Hampshire.

Conclusion: Staying Safe and Informed

Landlords are required to inspect and maintain fire sprinklers in most multi-unit rentals as per New Hampshire State Fire Code.
Renters should report sprinkler concerns in writing, and contact local fire officials if safety risks remain.
Free official forms are available to help renters file fire safety complaints or tenant-landlord disputes with state or local agencies.

Proactive communication and an understanding of local law help ensure your home remains safe and compliant with New Hampshire fire protection standards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

New Hampshire State Fire Code (RSA 153)
NH Department of Justice – Landlord/Tenant Section (complaints, mediation, forms)
NH Circuit Court – District Division (for disputes and tenant complaints)
Contact your local fire department for inspections or emergency concerns