New Hampshire Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
N.H. Rev. Stat. §540:2 — New Hampshire Actions Against Tenants
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 7-Day Demand for Rent
- Lease violation: 30-Day Notice to Quit
- Unconditional: 30-Day Notice to Quit
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Quit
Available Defenses
- Habitability (N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:2)
- Retaliation (N.H. Rev. Stat. §540:13-a)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 7 days to pay past-due rent upon demand
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:3)
Court & Filing
District Court
Landlord must file possessory action in district court after notice period expires
Complaints: New Hampshire Attorney General Consumer Protection Bureau
Additional Protections
- Self-help eviction prohibited
- Landlord must provide 30-day notice for most eviction grounds
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New Hampshire Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 7-Day Demand for Rent; Lease violation: 30-Day Notice to Quit; Unconditional: 30-Day Notice to Quit; End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Quit. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in New Hampshire?
Available defenses in New Hampshire include: Habitability (N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:2), Retaliation (N.H. Rev. Stat. §540:13-a), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does New Hampshire require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 7 days to pay past-due rent upon demand
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in New Hampshire?
No. Under N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:3, self-help eviction is prohibited in New Hampshire. Your landlord must file in District Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in New Hampshire?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite N.H. Rev. Stat. §540:2, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in New Hampshire?
File complaints with the New Hampshire Attorney General Consumer Protection Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.