Frequently Asked Questions by Residents

1. How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit?
In New Hampshire, the maximum allowed security deposit is one month’s rent or $100, whichever is greater. We allow residents to pay a non-refundable move in fee of $500 before move in, in lieu of a full months security deposit.

2. How do i pay rent?

We use Buildium for our property management software and every resident must pay through there using your checking account or credit card. Buildium will charge you a fee to pay rent with your credit card. But once you come on board as a resident you will receive a welcome email from Buildium where you can create your portal. From there you will be able to pay rent, set it up on auto debit and pay any fees etc. 

3. How long does the landlord have to return my security deposit?
The landlord must return the deposit (and a written itemized list of deductions, if any) within 30 days after you move out and return the keys.

4. Can my landlord enter the property without notice?
Landlords must give reasonable notice (generally 24 hours) except in emergencies.

5. Can my landlord raise my rent?
Yes—New Hampshire does not regulate rent increases. However, the landlord must give proper written notice, usually 30 days.

6. What utilities am I responsible for?
This depends on your lease. Your lease agreement will clearly state if you are responsible for any utilities. 

7. What is considered “normal wear and tear”?
Normal wear and tear includes aging or damage that happens from ordinary use—examples include minor scuffs on walls or worn carpet. Tenants can be charged for damage, such as holes, broken fixtures, stains, or neglect.

8. What happens if my heat, water, or essential service stops working?
Under NH law, landlords must repair essential services within a reasonable time, typically considered within 5 days for urgent issues. For heat in winter, repairs must be made promptly.

9. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t make repairs?
Tenants generally cannot withhold rent outright, but NH law allows options such as:
• petitioning the court for rent escrow
• requesting inspections under RSA 48-A
• terminating the lease in severe habitability cases

Always follow legal process before withholding rent.

10. Can I be evicted without notice?
No. New Hampshire requires a written notice to quit before eviction proceedings begin. The notice period is typically:
• 7 days for non‑payment of rent or tenant-caused damage
• 30 days for other lease violations or end-of-tenancy

11. Can my landlord charge late fees?
Yes, if the fees are reasonable and stated in the lease. The late fees are stated in the lease and start after the 5th of each month. After the 5th a late fee charge of $30 is applied and a fee of $8/day is added until rent is paid in full.

12. Am I allowed to have pets?
This is on a case by case basis, but pets are generally considered. A monthly pet fee of $50 for each pet will apply.

13. Can I sublet my rental?
NO subletting apartments

14. What happens if I break my lease early?
You may be responsible for rent until the unit is re-rented. However, NH law requires landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit. 60 day notice to vacate is required when it comes to vacate your apartment. During that time, new potential residents can be brought in to tour the unit to make a seamless transition. 

15. What should I do before moving out?
• Provide written notice as required by your lease (60 days)
• Clean the unit thoroughly
• Fix any tenant-caused damage
• Return all keys
• Provide a forwarding address for the security deposit

16. Do I need renter’s insurance?
It’s not required by NH law, but i highly suggest you carry it. Its a very low expense to provide piece of mind for your belongings

17. Is there "quiet time" where residents need to cease all loud noise.

Yes, 

18. Can my landlord ban smoking or cannabis?
Yes. Landlords are allowed to prohibit smoking and cannabis use (including growing) in the lease.

19. Can my landlord deny my emotional support or service animal?
No. Service animals and ESAs are not pets, and landlords must allow them under federal housing law, even in no‑pet buildings.

20. What happens if I leave belongings behind after moving out?
NH allows landlords to consider abandoned items as abandoned personal property and dispose of them after proper notice.

21. What do i do about maintenance requests?

You will use the portal you created through Builidum where you will see the icon to submit a maintenance request. All maintenance requests need to be submitted through Builidum and not sent as a text to the work phone number. Once your request is received, it will be assigned to the appropriate vendor who will reach out directly to coordinate a time to resolve the issue for you.