New Hampshire Security Deposit Law Explained
Here is what New Hampshire security deposit law means in plain English: the deadline, the written itemization, what can be deducted, interest, coverage issues, and what happens when the landlord does not comply.
The basics
- New Hampshire generally uses a 30-day return rule after the tenancy terminates
- the deposit cap is one month's rent or $100, whichever is greater, for covered rentals
- interest can matter if the landlord holds the deposit for more than one year
- damage deductions require a written itemized list and satisfactory repair evidence
- reasonable wear and tear is not deductible
- noncompliance can support double damages, attorney's fees, and costs
- coverage exceptions can matter in some owner-occupied or single-family situations
The 30-day rule
New Hampshire generally requires the landlord to return the security deposit and any interest due within 30 days after the tenancy terminates.
Written itemization and evidence matter
If the landlord keeps money for damages, the landlord should provide a written itemized list, describe the repair with particularity, and provide satisfactory evidence that the repair has been or will be completed.
A vague explanation, no written statement, or no repair evidence makes the deduction easier to challenge.
What New Hampshire allows landlords to deduct
New Hampshire permits deductions for damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, unpaid rent, the tenant's share of real-estate taxes if the lease requires it, and other lawful unpaid lease charges.
Remedies if the landlord does not comply
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 30-day deadline, interest issue, coverage facts, written itemization, repair evidence, lawful charges, and the actual refund balance especially important.
Coverage exceptions
New Hampshire's special security-deposit protections do not fit every rental arrangement.
Coverage can be different in some owner-occupied buildings and some single-family arrangements. If your rental is in one of those categories, keep the facts practical and specific: deposit amount, lease terms, tenancy end date, itemization, deductions, repair evidence, and what money is still owed.
How this fits together
Important: This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.