Renting a home or apartment is a significant part of life for many people. In New Hampshire, like in many states, rent increases can sometimes be a source of concern for tenants.
Whether you’re living in a city like Manchester or a smaller town, understanding the laws surrounding rent increases is important to protect your rights as a tenant. In this article, we’ll break down the latest updates to New Hampshire’s rent increase laws for 2025 and what you should know as a tenant.
What Does New Hampshire Law Say About Rent Increases?
New Hampshire, like many other states, doesn’t have statewide rent control, meaning landlords are generally free to raise rent as they see fit. However, there are specific rules and guidelines that landlords must follow, especially when it comes to notifying tenants about the increase and the timing of such increases.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Notice of Rent Increase:
Landlords must provide written notice before increasing the rent. The required notice period is 30 days for month-to-month tenants. For tenants with a lease (e.g., a one-year lease), the rent cannot be increased until the lease is up, unless otherwise specified in the lease agreement.
If a tenant has a fixed-term lease, rent increases are generally not allowed during the lease term unless the lease includes a rent increase clause. - Rent Increase Frequency:
While there is no state law that limits how often a landlord can raise rent, the increase must be reasonable and comply with the terms of the lease agreement. In most cases, landlords may raise rent once the lease term ends or with proper notice during a month-to-month rental agreement. - No Rent Control in New Hampshire:
New Hampshire is not a state with rent control laws, meaning landlords can raise rent as much as they choose when allowed by law. However, they are still required to follow the rules on providing proper notice and adhering to the terms of any existing lease.
Can Landlords Raise Rent During a Lease?
As mentioned, landlords cannot increase rent during the term of a fixed lease unless the lease specifically allows for it. If your lease says that the rent may be raised after a certain period (e.g., after 6 months or a year), the landlord can raise it according to the agreement.
If the lease does not contain any provisions about rent increases, the landlord cannot raise rent until the lease ends. Once the lease is over, the landlord can either offer a new lease at a new rent amount or allow the tenant to continue month-to-month at the new rate (with proper notice).
Are There Any Limits to How Much Rent Can Be Raised?
In New Hampshire, there are no statewide rent control laws that limit how much a landlord can increase rent. However, the increase must still be reasonable and not violate other laws.
For example, if a rent increase is so high that it effectively forces tenants out of their homes (a practice called rent gouging), it could raise concerns or even lead to legal action. This is more of an ethical and fairness issue than a legal one, but it’s something landlords should keep in mind.
What to Do if You Think the Rent Increase Is Unfair?
If you believe the rent increase is unfair or too high, here are some steps you can take:
- Review Your Lease Agreement:
Make sure that the rent increase is allowed under the terms of your lease. If you’re on a fixed-term lease, ensure that there’s no clause that allows rent increases before the lease ends. - Talk to Your Landlord:
Try to have a conversation with your landlord. They may be open to negotiating a smaller increase or offering other concessions. - Know Your Rights:
Familiarize yourself with your rights as a tenant in New Hampshire. While the state doesn’t have rent control laws, tenants are still protected from things like discrimination or retaliation. If you think the rent increase is being used as retaliation for complaints or actions related to your tenancy, this could be illegal. - Seek Legal Advice:
If you feel that the increase is illegal or if the landlord isn’t following the proper procedure, you may want to seek advice from a local tenant’s rights organization or an attorney.
What to Expect in 2025?
The rent increase laws in New Hampshire are unlikely to change dramatically in 2025. However, tenants can expect more focus on tenant protections and affordable housing issues in the coming years.
Some cities or towns within New Hampshire may explore local ordinances to address housing affordability, but these would only apply to specific areas, not the entire state.
For tenants in New Hampshire, staying informed about your rights is essential, especially when it comes to rent increases. While there are no rent control laws in the state, landlords must follow specific guidelines when increasing rent, including providing proper notice.
If you’re facing a rent increase and you believe it’s unfair, it’s important to communicate with your landlord and know your legal options. Understanding the rent increase process in 2025 will help ensure that you’re prepared and able to protect your rights as a tenant.
