If you’re renting in New Hampshire or planning to rent in the future, it’s important to stay informed about the laws surrounding rent increases. These laws are designed to protect tenants from sudden, unfair hikes in rent and ensure both tenants and landlords understand their rights and responsibilities. With new updates on rent increase laws for 2025, here’s what tenants need to know to avoid surprises and maintain a stable living situation.
Understanding Rent Increase Rules in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, there is no statewide rent control, meaning landlords are free to increase rent, but there are guidelines and rules they must follow. Unlike some states where rent increases are strictly regulated, New Hampshire allows landlords to raise rent as they see fit—as long as they follow certain rules.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
One of the most important aspects of New Hampshire’s rent increase laws is the notice period. Tenants must be given advance notice before a rent increase takes effect. Here are the general guidelines:
For month-to-month leases: Landlords must give tenants at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase can take place.
For longer-term leases: If you have a lease agreement that runs for a fixed period (like a 6-month or year-long lease), the rent cannot be raised until the lease expires, unless there is a specific clause in the lease allowing for an increase.
This notice ensures that tenants have enough time to plan, negotiate, or move if the new rent is unaffordable.
How Much Can Rent Be Increased?
While New Hampshire doesn’t have limits on the amount a landlord can increase rent, tenants should be aware of the following:
Reasonable Rent Increases: Even though rent increases aren’t capped, they should still be reasonable and not sudden or excessive. If a landlord is trying to increase rent dramatically, it could raise suspicions or lead to disputes.
Lease Agreements: If you are under a lease with a fixed term, the rent will generally remain unchanged until your lease ends, unless your lease specifically allows for rent increases during the term.
For example, if a landlord attempts to raise the rent by an extremely high percentage without a valid reason, such as major improvements or rising market conditions, tenants could challenge the increase or choose to move out at the end of their lease term.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Rent Increase Rules?
Some areas of New Hampshire may have local ordinances or regulations that affect rent increases. It’s important to check with your local town or city government to see if there are any local rent control laws or regulations that may impact your lease.
Additionally, rent increases cannot be used to retaliate against tenants for actions such as:
Complaining to authorities about habitability issues (such as poor maintenance).
Joining a tenant union or taking legal action against a landlord.
Exercising other tenant rights as protected under the law.
If a rent increase is seen as a retaliation, it may be subject to legal challenges.
What Can Tenants Do If They Feel the Rent Increase is Unfair?
If a tenant believes that a rent increase is unfair or unlawful, here are the steps to consider:
Review Your Lease: Double-check your lease agreement to see if any clauses allow for a rent increase during the lease term.
Negotiate with Your Landlord: In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the rent increase with your landlord. If you have a good rental history, you might be able to come to an agreement that works for both parties.
Seek Legal Advice: If the increase seems unfair or retaliatory, consider speaking with a tenant’s rights lawyer or local housing agency. They can help determine whether the rent increase is legally acceptable.
In New Hampshire, tenant organizations and local housing authorities can also provide resources and support for renters facing difficulties with rent increases.
As a tenant in New Hampshire, it’s crucial to understand your rights when it comes to rent increases, especially with potential changes expected in 2025. Remember that while landlords can increase rent, they must provide proper notice, and the increase must be reasonable. Always keep an eye on your lease agreements and seek assistance if you believe a rent increase is unjustified.
By staying informed and proactive, tenants can better protect themselves and maintain stable housing in New Hampshire.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/new-hampshire-rent-control-laws/
[2] https://courts-state-nh-us.libguides.com/c.php?g=896726&p=6450247
[3] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-new-hampshire
[4] https://innago.com/new-hampshire-landlord-tenant-laws/
[5] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/new-hampshire-tenant-landlord-law/
