Are you a landlord in New Hampshire? If so, you need to know the ins and outs of lease agreements in the state.
From lead-based paint regulations to security deposit requirements, this article will provide you with essential information.
Learn about tenant screening guidelines, eviction notices, and more.
Stay informed and confident as you navigate the rental market in New Hampshire.
Lead-Based Paint and Disclosure Requirements
As a landlord in New Hampshire, it’s important to understand the lead-based paint and disclosure requirements of the state’s lease agreements.
For most properties built before 1978, landlords are required to include information about lead-based paint hazards in their New Hampshire rental lease agreement. This obligation stems from Section 1018 of the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992.
Sellers and landlords must also distribute an EPA-approved information pamphlet called ‘Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home’ to tenants. Additionally, they must disclose any known lead hazards in the property.
To ensure compliance with these requirements, it’s crucial to include the necessary information and documentation in your New Hampshire lease agreement, whether it’s a residential lease agreement or a rental lease agreement.
Security Deposit Regulations
To comply with New Hampshire lease agreements, landlords must be familiar with the state’s security deposit regulations.
The deposit limit in New Hampshire is 1 month’s rent or $100, whichever is greater.
Landlords are also required to pay interest on security deposits based on the rate paid on regular savings accounts in the depositing institution.
When it comes to returning the security deposit, landlords must do so within 30 days.
It’s important for landlords to keep the security deposit in a separate bank account, unmingled with personal funds.
They may withhold funds from the security deposit for damages, excluding reasonable wear and tear, and must provide tenants with a written, itemized list of damages.
Familiarizing yourself with these regulations will help ensure compliance and protect both landlords and tenants.
Move-In Checklist Obligation
When moving tenants into a rental unit in New Hampshire, landlords are obligated to provide a move-in checklist within five days of occupancy. This checklist should include any conditions in the rental unit that are in need of repair or correction. It’s important for landlords to thoroughly inspect the property and document any existing damages or issues before the tenant moves in.
By providing a move-in checklist, landlords ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the condition of the rental unit at the beginning of the tenancy. This can help prevent disputes and disagreements about damages that may occur during the tenant’s occupancy.
Additionally, the move-in checklist serves as a reference for the landlord when conducting the move-out inspection and determining any deductions from the security deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
Rent and Fees Policies
Provide tenants with clear and concise information regarding rent and fees policies to ensure transparency and avoid any misunderstandings or disputes.
When it comes to rent policies in New Hampshire, there’s no specific statute stating when rent should be due, giving landlords flexibility in setting due dates.
Application fees are also not regulated, allowing landlords to charge a reasonable fee for processing rental applications.
Additionally, there’s no statewide rent control, giving landlords the freedom to adjust rent prices as they see fit.
Late fees aren’t limited by law, but a standard late fee is typically around 5% of the monthly rent.
It’s important to note that New Hampshire doesn’t require a mandatory grace period, so tenants should be aware of the rent due date and make timely payments.
Tenant Screening and Fair Housing Protections
Ensure Fair Housing Protections and Tenant Screening in New Hampshire by complying with federal laws and regulations.
As a landlord, it’s crucial to understand and follow the rules set forth by the federal Fair Housing Act. This law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, familial status, disability, gender identity, and marital status.
When it comes to tenant screening, you must also comply with the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when using credit information. This means you need to obtain the tenant’s consent and follow proper procedures when obtaining and using their credit report.
Additionally, while criminal background checks can be used during the screening process, it’s important to follow the recommendations set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure fair use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, staying informed about your New Hampshire residential lease agreement is crucial for landlords.
From lead-based paint regulations to security deposit requirements, understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you navigate the rental market successfully.
Additionally, knowing the rental market facts, such as median rent rates and eviction defenses limitations, can contribute to maintaining a successful landlord-tenant relationship.
By staying compliant with the law, landlords can ensure a positive and legally sound rental experience in New Hampshire.
