Security Deposit Laws in New Hampshire
New Hampshire caps security deposits at 1 month's rent or $100, whichever is greater, requires return within 30 days, requires interest on deposits held a year or longer, and bars entry without the tenant's prior consent except for emergency repairs.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
New Hampshire at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1 month's rent
- 1 month's rent or $100, whichever is greater
- Deposit return deadline
- 30 days
- 30 days after termination of tenancy
- Interest on deposits
- Required in some cases
- State law requires interest only in some situations, for example above a unit count or holding period
- Notice before landlord entry
- See the rule
- Tenant's prior consent required except emergency repairs; tenant must allow access after notice adequate under the circumstances
The rules in New Hampshire
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire limits security deposits to 1 month's rent or $100, whichever is greater.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire rule: 30 days after termination of tenancy.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in New Hampshire?
Only in some cases. New Hampshire law requires interest only in certain situations, for example above a number of units or after the deposit is held for a set time. Check the statute for the details.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire rule: Tenant's prior consent required except emergency repairs; tenant must allow access after notice adequate under the circumstances.
Where do the New Hampshire rules for residential leases come from?
They come from RSA 540-A:6 Security deposit procedure, RSA 540-A:7 Return of security deposit, RSA 540-A:5 Definitions and 1 other source. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How New Hampshire compares
New Hampshire is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 30-day return deadline is the same as the most common deadline of 30 days; 15 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.