Who Pays for Internet in New Hampshire Apartments?

Having reliable internet service is a top concern for many renters in New Hampshire. But who is responsible for paying for internet in your apartment? This article explains New Hampshire laws and your rights regarding internet utility arrangements. You’ll find practical steps if you have problems, which official forms may help, and where you can turn for support.

Internet Service Responsibilities for New Hampshire Renters

In New Hampshire, internet access in rental properties isn’t treated the same way as essential utilities like heat, electricity, or running water. The specific responsibilities depend on what your lease says:

• If your lease includes internet: Landlords must provide and maintain the service just like any other utility listed in your rental agreement.
• If your lease does not mention internet: It is generally the renter’s responsibility to arrange and pay for the internet setup and monthly fees.

New Hampshire’s RSA 540:1-b (Rental Property: Utilities) law covers minimum standards for essential services but does not require landlords to provide internet. The law only requires landlords to provide heat, water, electricity, and adequate waste removal in most cases.

How Internet Charges Might Appear in Your Lease

• Bundled utilities: Some landlords offer apartments with utilities like cable TV or internet included. If your lease lists internet as included, you should not be expected to pay extra.
• Tenant-arranged service: If your lease is silent on internet, you may need to contact your own provider.
• Shared or building-wide Wi-Fi: If your building advertises free Wi-Fi, it’s the landlord’s job to maintain it at the quality described in your lease or promotional materials.

If internet is listed as a provided utility and the service is unreliable or missing, you should notify your landlord in writing. If not resolved, you may have rights to withhold rent, seek a rent abatement, or pursue a complaint.

What To Do if You Have Issues with Internet Service

If your landlord is required to provide internet (per your lease) and fails to do so:

• Notify the landlord in writing, keeping a copy for your records.
• Clearly state the problem and request a repair or restoration date.
• If unresolved, you may be able to file a complaint or take further steps (see below).

Relevant Official Forms for Disputes

• Landlord and Tenant Writ (NHJB-2106-LT)
  When used: If a dispute over utilities (including internet, if your lease requires it) escalates and your landlord seeks eviction, this court form is used in eviction proceedings.
  How it helps: As a tenant, receiving this form means your landlord has started legal action. Respond promptly! More on this form at the New Hampshire Judicial Branch: Landlord and Tenant Writ page.
• Complaint Form (Housing Standards)
  When used: If internet access is included in your lease and remains unfixed after you’ve notified your landlord, you can submit a housing standards complaint to your local city or town inspection office. The form and process vary by town. Find your local housing code enforcement office here.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

There’s no separate housing tribunal in New Hampshire. Instead, disputes (including those about utilities) are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division. This is where eviction cases and disagreements about lease obligations (including internet service if it’s required) are decided.

Relevant New Hampshire Tenancy Law

For all renters in New Hampshire, your rights and obligations regarding utilities (including internet, if it’s specified) are shaped by the New Hampshire RSA Chapter 540: Landlord and Tenant and RSA Chapter 48-A: Housing Standards.
These laws specify what landlords must provide and your options if obligations aren’t met.

FAQ: Internet Service in New Hampshire Rentals

1. Is my landlord required by law to provide internet in New Hampshire?
   No. Internet is not considered an essential service under New Hampshire law unless your lease specifically includes it.
2. What can I do if my landlord stops providing included internet?
   Notify your landlord in writing. If unresolved, contact your local housing code enforcement office and keep records of all steps taken.
3. Can I withhold rent if the landlord fails to provide the promised internet?
   Maybe, but only if the lease says internet is provided. Seek legal advice before withholding rent and follow proper notice procedures.
4. How do I file a formal complaint about internet service?
   If your lease lists internet and it remains unfixed, file a complaint with your local housing inspector. Persistent disputes may end up in the New Hampshire Circuit Court.
5. Does a "utilities included" lease always mean internet is provided?
   No. "Utilities" usually means heat, water, and electricity. Only expect internet if your lease specifically states it is provided.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• In New Hampshire, internet is rarely a mandatory utility, so check your lease carefully.
• If your lease includes internet, the landlord must ensure service or address problems promptly.
• For disputes, keep good records and know which forms and agencies can help.

We’ve covered what New Hampshire law says about internet service for renters, the steps to resolve problems, and where to go for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division: Handles landlord-tenant disputes including utility disputes.
• Find Your Local Code Enforcement Office: For complaints about housing standards or utility obligations in your town.
• New Hampshire Legal Aid: Free advice for renters facing housing problems or evictions.
• RSA Chapter 540: Landlord and Tenant: Official state law about rental housing.

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1. RSA 540:1-b (Rental Property: Utilities)
2. RSA Chapter 540: Landlord and Tenant – Tenancy Legislation
3. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division
4. Landlord and Tenant Writ (Form NHJB-2106-LT)
5. New Hampshire Local Code Enforcement

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