If you’re renting a home or apartment in New Hampshire, it’s important to be aware of the laws regarding rent increases. Rent hikes can be a source of stress for tenants, especially when they feel that the increase is unfair or sudden. In 2025, tenants in New Hampshire will need to understand the state’s rental laws to protect themselves. Here’s what you need to know about rent increases in the state.
Understanding Rent Increase Laws in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, landlords can raise rent, but there are specific rules they must follow. Unlike some states that have rent control or rent stabilization laws, New Hampshire does not have statewide rent control. This means that landlords can increase rent at their discretion, but there are certain guidelines that must be followed.
1. Notice Requirement for Rent Increases
Under New Hampshire law, a landlord must give tenants proper notice before raising rent. This notice must be in writing and the amount of time given depends on the length of your lease:
For month-to-month tenants: If you’re renting on a month-to-month basis, the landlord must provide at least 30 days’ notice before increasing rent.
For tenants with a fixed-term lease: If you have a lease with a fixed term (e.g., 6 months or 1 year), your rent cannot be increased until the lease term ends unless the lease agreement specifically allows rent increases during the term.
It’s important to note that if a lease does not specify anything about rent increases during the lease term, the landlord cannot raise the rent until the lease expires.
2. Fair and Reasonable Increases
While there’s no cap on how much a landlord can raise rent, the increase must be reasonable. This means that while the law doesn’t dictate a maximum percentage, a rent hike that is clearly excessive or retaliatory could be challenged. For example, raising rent by a large amount without just cause, especially in response to a tenant complaining or asserting their rights, could be seen as retaliatory and illegal.
3. No Rent Control in New Hampshire
As mentioned earlier, New Hampshire does not have statewide rent control laws. This means that landlords are not restricted to a set percentage increase in rent. However, they still must follow the legal procedures for notifying tenants about a rent increase, and the increase cannot be discriminatory or retaliatory.
4. Discriminatory or Retaliatory Rent Increases
Landlords in New Hampshire are prohibited from increasing rent as a form of retaliation. For example, if you file a complaint with the local housing authority or request repairs that are required by law, and your landlord raises the rent immediately after, this could be seen as retaliation. Similarly, a rent increase based on race, gender, or other discriminatory factors is illegal.
5. Rent Increases After Lease Expiration
Once your lease term ends, the landlord has the right to raise the rent if you continue to rent on a month-to-month basis. They are still required to give you proper notice, as mentioned above. If you do not agree with the new rent amount, you can choose to move out or negotiate with the landlord.
6. Eviction and Non-Payment of Increased Rent
If the rent increase is legal, and you agree to the new terms, you are required to pay the increased rent. However, if you do not pay the increased rent, the landlord could begin the eviction process. It’s essential to pay attention to the new rent amount and ensure that you understand whether the increase is within legal limits.
How to Protect Yourself From Unfair Rent Increases
Although New Hampshire does not have rent control, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from unfair rent increases:
Review Your Lease: Ensure that your lease agreement clearly outlines the rent and any terms related to rent increases. If you’re on a fixed-term lease, your rent should not be increased until the lease expires unless otherwise stated.
Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with New Hampshire’s landlord-tenant laws. If you believe a rent increase is illegal or retaliatory, you can seek legal advice or contact a local tenant’s association.
Negotiate with Your Landlord: If you feel that a rent increase is too high, try to negotiate with your landlord. Many landlords may be willing to discuss the terms or offer an alternative arrangement if you’re a long-term tenant.
Seek Legal Help: If you’re unsure about the legality of a rent increase, consult with a local attorney or housing counselor. They can help you understand your rights and guide you in taking action if necessary.
Rent increases are a reality for many tenants in New Hampshire, but understanding the state’s laws can help you navigate this situation with confidence. In 2025, New Hampshire renters should be aware of the 30-day notice requirement, ensure their rent increase is reasonable and not retaliatory, and seek legal help if they feel their rights are being violated. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that you’re treated fairly by your landlord.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/new-hampshire-rent-control-laws/
[2] https://www.doorloop.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent
[3] https://courts-state-nh-us.libguides.com/c.php?g=896726&p=6450247
[4] https://courts-state-nh-us.libguides.com/rentincreases
[5] https://www.housingonline.com/2025/06/04/new-hampshire-housing-2025-home-and-housing-trust-fund-income-and-rent-limits-published/
