New Hampshire Tenant Protections After Domestic Violence

If you are renting in New Hampshire and have experienced domestic violence, you have special legal protections. Knowing your rights can help you stay safe and make decisions about your housing. This guide breaks down key New Hampshire tenant protections, practical steps, and official resources so you can take action confidently.

Key Domestic Violence Protections for New Hampshire Renters

New Hampshire law recognizes that renters experiencing domestic violence may need emergency assistance in maintaining or leaving their home. The law gives tenants vital rights related to locks, evictions, and lease termination.

Emergency Lock Changes

As a tenant, you have the right to request in writing that your landlord change the locks on your rental unit if you or a household member is a victim of domestic violence. You must provide one of the following as proof:

• A protective order under New Hampshire RSA 173-B (such as a court order of protection against abuse)
• A police report documenting domestic violence within the last 90 days

After receiving your written request and valid documentation, your landlord must change the locks within 48 hours. If you pay for the lock change, you must give your landlord a copy of the new key, unless the landlord is listed as the respondent on your protective order.

Early Lease Termination Rights

If you need to move out for your safety, you can legally end your lease by providing your landlord with:

• Written notice that you or a household member are a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault
• Documentation such as a protective order or police report

You may be released from your rental agreement 30 days after giving proper notice and documentation.

Protection from Eviction

Landlords cannot evict tenants because they are victims of domestic violence or for calling the police during an incident of abuse. However, tenants must still comply with all other lease terms.

How to Use Official Forms

For most protections, New Hampshire law does not require a special form—your written request plus proper documentation (protective order or police report) suffice. Seek help from the Circuit Court or Family Division if you need an official protective order.

• Protective Order Petition (NHJB-2069-F): Used to request a court order of protection from abuse. Submit to your local Circuit Court, typically with assistance from an advocate or family court clerk.

Example: If you need to terminate your lease early, you may file for a protective order using NHJB-2069-F, and provide a copy to your landlord with written notice of lease termination.

Relevant Tribunal and Laws

• New Hampshire Circuit Court (handles landlord-tenant disputes and protective orders)
• Key Legislation: NH RSA 540:2 (Tenant Protections from Eviction); NH RSA 540-B; NH RSA 173-B:13 (Protections for Domestic Violence Victims)

FAQ: Domestic Violence Tenant Protections in New Hampshire

1. Can a landlord refuse to change my locks if I show proof of domestic violence?
   If you provide the required written request and legal documentation (protective order or police report), your landlord must change the locks within 48 hours.
2. How do I terminate my lease early if I am a victim?
   Give your landlord written notice and documentation (such as a protective order or police report). You’re released from your lease 30 days after giving this notice.
3. Do I need a special form to request protections as a tenant?
   No special form is required. Written notice and one of the accepted documents (protective order or recent police report) are sufficient for most rights.
4. Will I be penalized for calling the police about domestic violence?
   No. Under New Hampshire law, you cannot be evicted or penalized by your landlord for seeking emergency police assistance due to domestic violence.
5. What if my landlord is listed in my protective order?
   If the landlord is the respondent, you are not required to provide them with a copy of the new key after a lock change.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• New Hampshire renters facing domestic violence can request lock changes and, if needed, end their lease early for safety.
• Written notice and official documentation (protective order or police report) are essential for accessing these rights.
• Landlords cannot evict tenants for seeking help due to abuse, and the Circuit Court can assist with protective orders and disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court: Landlord/tenant dispute and protective order information
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Housing Help
• Domestic Violence Protective Order Resources
• 24/7 NH Domestic Violence Crisis Line: 1-866-644-3574

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1. NH RSA 173-B:13 – Domestic Violence and Housing Protections
2. NH RSA 540:2 – Termination and Eviction
3. New Hampshire Circuit Court (Landlord and Tenant)
4. NH Legal Aid – Domestic Violence Tenant Rights

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