What Happens If Your Rent Goes Up in New Hampshire?

Facing a sudden rent increase can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure of your legal rights. In New Hampshire, where rent control laws are not currently in effect, it’s important for renters to understand what happens when a landlord raises the rent to market rates. This guide explains New Hampshire’s laws, required notices, and what actions you can take if your rent is changing.

Understanding Rent Increases in New Hampshire

Unlike some other states, New Hampshire does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization. This means landlords can generally raise the rent to any amount, as long as they follow the proper notice requirements. Rent increases may happen at the end of a lease or during a month-to-month tenancy, but strict rules must be followed.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

Landlords must give renters at least 30 days’ written notice if they want to increase the rent for tenants renting month-to-month.^[1] For fixed-term leases, the rent cannot be increased during the term unless the lease allows it.

• Month-to-month renters: At least a 30-day written notice is required before any increase takes effect.
• Lease (fixed-term) renters: Rent stays the same until the lease ends, unless your lease says otherwise.

If you receive a rent increase notice, review it carefully and make sure it includes:

• The new rent amount
• The date the new rent will start
• Proper notice timing (at least 30 days before the change for month-to-month tenants)

What If You Can’t Afford the New Rent?

If the new rent is too high, you have some options to consider:

• Negotiate with your landlord for a lower increase or a payment arrangement
• Search for more affordable housing
• Contact local rental assistance programs for help (see resources below)

Termination and Eviction Related to Rent Increases

If you can’t pay the new, higher rent, and do not move out by the date specified, your landlord may begin the eviction process. The primary official form landlords use is the “Notice to Quit,” which gives you formal warning about eviction processes beginning.

• Form Name: Notice to Quit
• Official Source: New Hampshire Judicial Branch Landlord and Tenant Process
• How and when it’s used: If you don’t move out after the rent increase deadline, or do not pay the new rent, your landlord can serve you a Notice to Quit, which typically gives you 7 days to pay any overdue rent or vacate.

After receiving a Notice to Quit, if you don’t resolve the issue or move out, your landlord may file an eviction complaint at the district court. Both landlords and tenants have the right to respond at a hearing before a judge. All actions must follow New Hampshire law, as found in the New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540 – Actions Against Tenants.^[2]

Are There Any Rent Control Protections in New Hampshire?

Currently, there is no rent control anywhere in New Hampshire. Landlords are free to set rent at market rates. Cities and towns cannot create their own rent control ordinances because New Hampshire law prohibits this.^[3]

Where to Turn for Help with Rent Increases

If you believe your landlord has not followed the law, such as failing to provide proper notice, you can get support and find official resources. The main tribunal handling rental housing matters in New Hampshire is the New Hampshire Circuit Court, District Division – Landlord and Tenant Process.

• Learn more about your rights from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services: Renters’ Rights.
• If you need forms or want to review eviction process details, visit the New Hampshire Courts – Landlord and Tenant Forms page.

FAQ: Rent Increases and Market Rent in New Hampshire

1. Can my landlord raise my rent whenever they want?
   For month-to-month tenancies, landlords can raise the rent, but only after giving at least 30 days’ written notice. For fixed-term leases, rent cannot go up during the lease unless your lease allows it.
2. Is there any rent control law in New Hampshire?
   No. New Hampshire does not have state or local rent control. Rent is set by the landlord based on the market.
3. What should I do if my landlord increases the rent with less notice than required?
   You can notify your landlord of the 30-day notice requirement under New Hampshire law. If issues continue, seek help from the court or a local legal aid resource.
4. What happens if I can’t afford the new rent?
   If you can’t pay the increased rent, you may need to negotiate, look for new housing, or apply for assistance. If you stay and don’t pay, you could face eviction.
5. Where can I find official forms or file a complaint?
   All forms related to landlord and tenant disputes in New Hampshire can be found on the New Hampshire courts official forms page.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Rent increases require at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month renters.
• There is currently no rent control in New Hampshire.
• If you receive a formal Notice to Quit after a rent increase, respond promptly.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities is key to managing any rent changes. Reach out to official resources for support if you need more help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court, District Division – Landlord and Tenant Process (Main tribunal for disputes and evictions)
• New Hampshire DHHS: Renters’ Rights
• NH Courts: Landlord and Tenant Official Forms
• Statewide legal assistance: New Hampshire Legal Aid
• For financial help: New Hampshire Community Action Partnership

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1. New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540: Actions Against Tenants Statute
2. Official court guidance: NH Circuit Court – Landlord and Tenant Process
3. State law: RSA 48:19 – Prohibition on Rent Control

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