New Hampshire Rent Control: Upcoming Laws and What Renters Should Know

Renters across New Hampshire are increasingly concerned about rising rents and affordability. While New Hampshire does not currently have rent control laws, conversations about possible legislation are growing. Understanding your rights as a renter—and how future changes might impact you—can help you make informed decisions and protect your home.

The Current Status of Rent Control in New Hampshire

As of now, there are no rent control or rent stabilization laws anywhere in New Hampshire. This means that, in most cases, landlords can set and increase rent at their discretion, unless you are in the middle of a lease agreement. However, all rent and lease changes must comply with New Hampshire’s main residential tenancy law, the New Hampshire RSA 540: Landlord and Tenant (Residential Tenancies).^[1]

Eviction and Notice Rules When Rents Are Raised

Even without rent control, landlords must follow notice procedures under RSA 540:3 if they intend to end a tenancy or raise your rent. For tenants not on a fixed-term lease, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent or asking the tenant to move out at the end of the rental period.

• Landlords cannot raise rent in the middle of a lease agreement unless the lease allows for it.
• All notices must be served in writing.
• New Hampshire law prohibits rent increases as a form of retaliation. For example, if you complain to a local health board about unsafe conditions, your landlord cannot legally respond by raising your rent.

Possible Future Changes: What to Watch For

Lawmakers and housing advocates have discussed rent control legislation due to rising rents and a low vacancy rate. While there is currently no active state law limiting how much rent can be increased, continued public debate means new proposals could emerge. The New Hampshire Legislature tracks rental housing bills on its website. Tenants are encouraged to stay informed about legislative updates.

What Would Rent Control Mean for Renters?

Rent control laws typically set legal limits on the amount or frequency of rent increases and may provide tenants with added protections against certain types of eviction. If similar laws are proposed in New Hampshire, they could:

• Cap rent increases to a set percentage per year
• Require specific justification for every rent increase
• Limit the circumstances under which a landlord can terminate a tenancy
• Introduce registration or oversight by a government agency

However, until such legislation passes, renters must rely on existing laws and proper procedures to protect their rights.

Key Forms for New Hampshire Renters

While there is currently no rent control application, several critical forms can affect your housing:

• Notice to Quit (RSA 540:3 Notice): Used by landlords to end a tenancy (including for nonpayment or after a rent increase). Tenants should read this carefully and know their right to proper notice. You can view the NHJB-2332-DS: Notice to Quit on the New Hampshire Judicial Branch website.
  Example: If you are given a 30-day notice for a rent increase, your landlord should use this form to notify you officially.
• Landlord and Tenant Writ (NHJB-2331-DS): Used if the landlord files for eviction in court. Tenants receive this after an eviction is filed. More information and the official form are available on the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Landlord and Tenant Writ.
  Example: If you do not accept a new rent and stay, and your landlord files for eviction, you will receive this form and can respond in court.

The Tribunal Handling Residential Tenancies

In New Hampshire, eviction and tenancy disputes are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court - District Division (formerly District Court and Municipal Court). This is where tenants can challenge eviction notices, respond to unlawful detainers, or raise legal defenses related to rent increases or housing conditions.

Keeping Up with Legislation

Because renting laws can change, it’s a good idea to check official state resources for updates. The best source for up-to-date legislation is the RSA 540: Landlord and Tenant chapter of New Hampshire’s statutes.

FAQs: Rent Control and Rent Increases in New Hampshire

1. Does New Hampshire currently have rent control?
   No. As of this year, New Hampshire does not have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give before raising the rent?
   Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month tenants.
3. Can my landlord evict me just to raise the rent?
   Landlords can end a tenancy with proper notice but cannot use rent increases as retaliation for lawful tenant actions, like reporting unsafe living conditions.
4. Where can I check for updates on possible rent control laws?
   You can follow the New Hampshire Legislature bill status page to watch for new housing bills.
5. Who do I contact if I believe a rent increase or eviction is unlawful?
   You can contact the New Hampshire Circuit Court or reach out to a local New Hampshire Legal Assistance office for help.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• No current rent control—future laws may be proposed, so stay informed
• Always require—and provide—official written notice for any rent changes
• Use state resources to track new legislation and protect your rights

Understanding current laws and keeping up-to-date on new proposals will help you stay protected and empowered as a renter in New Hampshire.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division: Handles all eviction and tenancy cases.
• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority: Rental Assistance
• New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA): Free civil legal help for low-income renters.
• RSA 540: Landlord and Tenant (Current Law Text)
• New Hampshire Legislative Bill Tracking

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1. RSA 540: Landlord and Tenant – New Hampshire Statutes
2. New Hampshire Circuit Court – Tenancy Matters
3. NHJB-2332-DS: Notice to Quit
4. NHJB-2331-DS: Landlord and Tenant Writ
5. NH Legal Aid & Government Resources

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