New Hampshire Landlord Disclosures: What Renters Must Know

Before you move into a rental property in New Hampshire, state law gives you important rights to receive certain disclosures and documents from your landlord. Understanding these required landlord disclosures helps prevent surprises, clarifies obligations, and increases your confidence as a renter.

What Landlords Must Disclose Before Move-In in New Hampshire

New Hampshire landlords are legally required to give renters specific information before or at the start of a tenancy. Here’s what you should expect:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for properties built before 1978)
• Security Deposit Receipt (if a deposit is collected)
• Move-In Checklist or inventory of the property's condition (if a security deposit is required)
• Name and address of the landlord or authorized agent
• Copy of the written rental agreement (if one exists)

Let’s break down what each disclosure means for renters in New Hampshire.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Required by Federal Law)

If you’re renting a home or apartment built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to give tenants the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form (EPA Form – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure). This lets you know about any known lead hazards. You should receive:

• An EPA-approved pamphlet on lead paint dangers
• The official disclosure form, completed and signed

Example: Before you sign your lease for a 1950s-era apartment in Concord, your landlord gives you and asks you to sign the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form. Make sure you read it and keep a copy for your records.

Security Deposit Receipt and Move-In Checklist

When a landlord collects a security deposit (also called a damage deposit), New Hampshire law requires they provide a written receipt and a detailed statement of the rental unit’s condition—known as a Move-In Checklist^[1].

• The Security Deposit Receipt should confirm the amount, the bank holding the deposit (if applicable), and when you paid.
• The Move-In Checklist allows you and your landlord to agree in writing about the condition of the property when you move in. Use this to note any existing damage or issues.

These forms protect your rights and make it easier to recover your deposit later. There isn’t a state-issued standard checklist, but you can ask your landlord for one or create your own.

Disclosure of Landlord or Agent Contact Information

State law (RSA 540-A:6) requires landlords to give you the name and address of either themselves or their property manager. This ensures you know who to contact about repairs, complaints, or notices. This information should be:

• Included in your lease, or
• Given to you separately in writing before you move in

Copy of the Lease or Written Rental Agreement

If your landlord provides a written lease, you are entitled to a full, signed copy. Review the lease carefully and ask questions before signing. For more about what a lease in New Hampshire must include, see the New Hampshire RSA 540-A: Rental Property Law.

Which Official Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, residential landlord-tenant matters are generally handled in the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division. This local court hears cases involving evictions, security deposit disputes, and other rental law issues.

Official Forms for New Hampshire Renters

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form: Required for homes/apartments built before 1978. Used at move-in to inform about or rule out lead paint hazards. Get the official EPA form here.
• Security Deposit Receipt: Provided by your landlord upon receipt of your deposit. Typically a handwritten or typed receipt; there is no standardized state form.
• Move-In Checklist: No required state version. It is a signed inventory of the property's condition at move-in, protecting both tenant and landlord. See tips from NH Department of Justice.

For all tenancy-related complaints or to file for return of your deposit, access forms and information at your local New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division.

FAQ: Required Landlord Disclosures in New Hampshire

1. What disclosures am I entitled to before moving in?
   Landlords must give you a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (if the unit was built before 1978), a security deposit receipt, a move-in checklist (if you paid a deposit), their name and address, and a copy of your lease if there is one.
2. Is the move-in checklist required by law?
   Yes, if a security deposit is collected, the landlord must provide a checklist detailing the unit’s condition at move-in.
3. What if a landlord refuses to provide the required disclosures?
   You have the right to request these documents. If a landlord refuses, consider contacting the New Hampshire Department of Justice Consumer Protection Bureau or your local Circuit Court.
4. Can I use my own move-in checklist?
   Yes. If the landlord does not supply one, you may prepare your own detailed inventory, sign it, and ask the landlord to sign as well.
5. Do I need a written lease to have rights?
   No. New Hampshire law protects you even if you do not have a written lease, but you are still entitled to the above disclosures.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• New Hampshire law protects renters with clear pre-move-in disclosure requirements
• Always get and keep copies of all forms and disclosures
• If you have concerns or your landlord is not following the law, resources are available to help

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NH Department of Justice: Landlord-Tenant Rights (Consumer Sourcebook)
• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division
• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority – Resources for Renters

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1. NH RSA 540-A: Rental Property Law – Definitions and Rules
2. NH Department of Justice: Security Deposit Guidance
3. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form

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