New Hampshire Statewide Rule
New Hampshire Just Cause Eviction Statute Statewide
Key Facts
- Statute
- RSA 540:2
- Grounds
- Eight enumerated (a to h)
- Nonpayment notice
- 7 days
- Other notice
- 30 days typical
Summary
New Hampshire RSA 540:2 establishes statewide just-cause eviction requirements. For restricted property, a landlord must prove one of the eight enumerated grounds in RSA 540:2, II(a) through (h), and municipalities cannot expand or contract those grounds.
II. The lessor or owner of restricted property may terminate any tenancy by giving to the tenant or occupant a notice in writing to quit the premises in accordance with RSA 540:3 and 5, but only for one of the following reasons: (a) Neglect or refusal to pay rent due and in arrears, upon demand. (b) Substantial damage to the premises by the tenant, members of his household, or guests. (c) Failure of the tenant to comply with a material term of the lease. (d) Behavior of the tenant or members of his family which adversely affects the health or safety of the other tenants or the landlord or his representatives, or failure of the tenant to accept suitable temporary relocation due to lead-based paint hazard abatement, as set forth in RSA 130-A:8-a, I. (e) Other good cause.
Full Breakdown
RSA 540:2 distinguishes restricted property from other rental property. For restricted property (most residential rentals), a landlord must show one of the eight enumerated good-cause grounds in RSA 540:2, II(a) through (h): nonpayment of rent, substantial damage by the tenant, material lease violation, conduct affecting health or safety (or refusal of lead relocation), other good cause including a legitimate business or economic reason, lead-hazard abatement, willful failure to prepare for bed bug treatment, and removal of a cotenant accused of domestic violence. Notice periods under RSA 540:3 are 7 days for the most serious grounds and 30 days for others. The framework is uniform statewide; municipalities cannot alter it.
Violations & Penalties
Self-help evictions are prohibited and create civil liability under RSA 540-A with fines up to $1,000 per day and treble damages for tenant losses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my New Hampshire landlord evict without cause?
What is the fastest eviction in New Hampshire?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.