Understanding Rent Gouging Laws in New Hampshire

If you rent in New Hampshire and are worried about sudden or unusually high rent increases, it's important to understand the laws around rent gouging in the state. While some states have specific protections or rent control, New Hampshire has unique rules that every renter should be aware of. This article covers what New Hampshire law says about rent increases, what counts as unfair or 'gouging,' and what steps you can take if you feel your rent was raised unreasonably.

How Does New Hampshire Define Rent Gouging?

Unlike some states, New Hampshire landlord-tenant law does not set limits on the amount a landlord can increase rent, provided they follow notice requirements and are not discriminating or retaliating against the tenant.¹ There is currently no official statewide rent control or rent gouging cap in place. This means landlords are generally free to raise rent by any amount once the lease term ends, as long as they give proper written notice.

Are There Any Exceptions?

While there is no specific cap, landlords

• Cannot raise rent because of retaliation—for example, punishing a renter who has reported a code violation
• Must not discriminate based on protected classes such as race, gender, disability, or family status
• Must provide the right amount of written notice before any rent increase

In rare cases, if a rent hike is intended to force tenants out or in retaliation for asserting legal rights, tenants may have legal protections under RSA 540 and federal fair housing laws.^1,2

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

In New Hampshire, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for tenants with a month-to-month lease.¹ For those with fixed-term leases, rent generally cannot be raised until the lease ends unless the lease specifically allows for increases.

• 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase: This notice must be in writing and delivered to the tenant at least 30 days before the increase takes effect.
  Download the official Notice to Terminate Tenancy or Increase Rent form (NH JB-2326-DIST)

Example: If your rent will increase on March 1st, your landlord must give you written notice by January 30th.

What If My Landlord Doesn’t Provide Proper Notice?

If you receive less than 30 days’ notice, you may have grounds to dispute the increase or refuse payment at the higher rate until the proper notice period has passed.

What Should Renters Do If They Suspect Unfair Rent Gouging?

While New Hampshire does not cap rent increases, you have options if you feel an increase is unfair, discriminatory, or retaliatory:

• Write to your landlord asking for a written explanation of the rent increase
• Contact the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division (Landlord & Tenant Cases) for guidance
• File a complaint if you believe you are being discriminated against (see next section)
• Consult with legal aid or tenant advocates about your rights and potential legal remedies

How to Submit a Rent-Related Complaint

If you believe your rent increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, you can:

• File a housing discrimination complaint: Use the New Hampshire Human Rights Commission complaint form. This is for issues involving protected classes such as race, disability, or family status.
• Take your case to the District Division of the NH Circuit Court: For disputes on notices or alleged retaliation, the District Court handles all landlord-tenant disputes. Learn more at the NH Circuit Court Landlord-Tenant page.

Relevant Forms for New Hampshire Renters

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy or Increase Rent (NH JB-2326-DIST):
  Official Download
  Use this form if you are a landlord increasing rent, or reference it if you are a tenant who receives such a notice. For example, if you receive this form with less than 30 days’ notice, you can dispute the increase.
• Landlord and Tenant Writ:
  Download from the NH Judicial Branch
  Landlords use this to start eviction for nonpayment, but it's also useful for tenants to review so they know the process.
• Housing Discrimination Complaint Form:
  Get the Human Rights Commission Form
  File this if you believe a rent increase or housing action was taken due to discrimination.

FAQ: Rent Increases and Rent Gouging in NH

1. Is there any limit to how much my landlord can raise the rent?
   New Hampshire law does not set a specific limit on rent increases, though written notice requirements and anti-retaliation rules apply.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before a rent increase?
   At least 30 days written notice is required for month-to-month leases.
3. What can I do if I think my rent was raised unfairly?
   Contact the landlord in writing, seek legal aid, or file a complaint with the NH Human Rights Commission if you suspect discrimination or retaliation.
4. Does New Hampshire offer any rent control or emergency rent caps?
   No, there is currently no state or local rent control or cap on rent increases in New Hampshire.
5. Where can I get official legal help with a rent increase dispute?
   The New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division handles landlord-tenant matters, and legal aid resources can provide support.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• New Hampshire does not have rent control, but landlords must give 30 days' written notice for increases.
• Rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory.
• Renters facing unfair or sudden hikes can dispute them if the proper notice is not provided or if their rights are violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NH Circuit Court – Landlord & Tenant Cases (official tribunal for tenancy disputes)
• New Hampshire Human Rights Commission (housing discrimination complaints)
• NH Legal Aid – Housing Resources (free help for eligible renters)
• Read RSA 540: New Hampshire Landlord & Tenant Law

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1. RSA 540 – Landlord and Tenant, New Hampshire General Court
2. New Hampshire Human Rights Commission
3. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division: Landlord & Tenant

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