New Hampshire Security Deposit FAQ
These are the questions renters usually have when something feels off with their security deposit.
If you want the quick version: know the 30-day rule, keep your evidence, check interest, check the itemization and repair evidence, and do not rely on one letter to do everything.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire generally requires the landlord to return the deposit and any interest due within 30 days after the tenancy terminates.
See the full rule: New Hampshire Security Deposit Deadline
Can a landlord deduct for reasonable wear and tear in New Hampshire?
No.
New Hampshire does not allow deductions for reasonable wear and tear.
See examples: Normal Wear and Tear in NH
What can a New Hampshire landlord deduct?
New Hampshire allows deductions for damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, unpaid rent, tenant share of real-estate taxes if the lease requires it, and other lawful unpaid lease charges.
Full breakdown: What Can a Landlord Deduct in NH?
Does a New Hampshire landlord need receipts or proof for deductions?
For damage deductions, New Hampshire source materials require a written itemized list and satisfactory evidence that repair has been or will be completed.
That evidence matters if the landlord is keeping money for damage.
What happens if a New Hampshire landlord misses the 30-day deadline?
If the landlord fails to comply with New Hampshire's deposit rule, you could win twice the deposit amount plus applicable interest, less lawful charges, along with attorney's fees and costs. That is leverage.
That makes the timeline, coverage, written itemization, repair evidence, lawful charges, and amount still owed especially important.
It is not automatic just because you dislike a deduction. The record should show the 30-day deadline, interest issue, itemization problem, repair-evidence gap, coverage facts, deduction issue, and amount owed.
Does New Hampshire require security deposit interest?
Interest can matter if the landlord holds the deposit for more than one year.
If your tenancy lasted long enough for interest to matter, include the deposit amount, how long it was held, any interest paid, and the unpaid balance in your written demand.
Can I file a 540-A petition for my security deposit?
The New Hampshire court information sheet says the return of a security deposit is not a basis for filing a 540-A petition and should be filed as a small claims case.
Does New Hampshire have a deposit cap?
For covered rentals, New Hampshire's deposit cap is one month's rent or $100, whichever is greater.
Some owner-occupied buildings and some single-family arrangements can be treated differently, so keep the rental type clear when you review the deposit cap and remedies.
TL;DR
If you are trying to get your security deposit back in New Hampshire:
- calculate the 30-day deadline correctly
- keep proof of termination and possession delivery
- look for written itemization and repair evidence
- check whether interest is due
- challenge reasonable wear and tear charges
- send letters in a clear sequence