State Law Guide · Updated January 2026
New Hampshire Security Deposit Laws
Under New Hampshire RSA 540-A:6, New Hampshire landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of a tenant moving out. Landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face penalties of up to Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld.
Quick Answer
In New Hampshire, landlords have 30 days to return your security deposit after you move out and provide a forwarding address. The maximum deposit is 1 month's rent (or $100 minimum). If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit, you can sue in Small Claims Court (up to $10,000) and may recover Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld under New Hampshire RSA 540-A:6. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of deductions.
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What New Hampshire Law Requires
Return Deadline
Landlords have exactly 30 days to return your deposit after you move out. If they make deductions, they must provide an itemized statement explaining each charge with documentation.
Penalties for Violations
Landlords who wrongfully withhold deposits face Up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld. You can file in small claims court for amounts up to $10,000without needing an attorney.
Interest Requirements
No interest requirement
Common Deductions Landlords Make
Federal guidelines from HUD and the IRS establish "useful life" standards that limit what landlords can charge. Many common deductions are partially or fully invalid under these guidelines.
Carpet Replacement
Typical: $500-1,6005-year useful life per HUD MAP Guide Appendix 5C. Charges may be reduced or invalid based on how long you lived there.
Heating System
Typical: $200-60015-year useful life per IRS Publication 527. Charges may be reduced or invalid based on how long you lived there.
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HUD/IRS Citations
Useful life depreciation built in
$19 · Avg New Hampshire deposit: $1,400 · Potential 73x return
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a New Hampshire landlord have to return my deposit?
New Hampshire landlords have 30 days to return your deposit with an itemized statement of any deductions.
What is the deposit limit in New Hampshire?
One month's rent or $100, whichever is greater. Pet deposits may be charged additionally.
What penalties exist for wrongful withholding?
New Hampshire allows recovery of up to 2x the deposit wrongfully withheld.
Official Resources
- New Hampshire Attorney General Consumer Protection(Government)
- 603 Legal Aid(Legal Aid)
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Based on New Hampshire RSA 540-A:6 · HUD Handbook 4350.1 · IRS Publication 527