New Hampshire Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:7 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges specified in the lease. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:8.
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1 month rent or $100 (whichever is greater)
- Itemization required: Within 30 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $10,000
Additional Protections
- Landlord must hold deposit in a bank account in New Hampshire
- Double damages for bad faith retention
What Your New Hampshire Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from New Hampshire's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:7 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to New Hampshire law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises...
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New Hampshire Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in New Hampshire?
Under N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:7, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 30 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my New Hampshire landlord legally take from my deposit?
In New Hampshire, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other charges specified in the lease. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire: Deterioration resulting from ordinary use of the premises. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my New Hampshire landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:8. You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in New Hampshire?
Yes. New Hampshire small claims court handles cases up to $10,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in New Hampshire?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a New Hampshire-specific dispute letter citing N.H. Rev. Stat. §540-A:7 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.