Landlord Entry Laws in New Hampshire

How much notice does a landlord have to give in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire requires landlords to give reasonable advance notice before entering under N.H. Rev. Stat. § 540-A:3 (entry); § 540-A:4 (remedies). The statute does not set a specific hour count — courts typically treat 24 hours as reasonable in practice.

What is your landlord allowed to enter for in New Hampshire?

Under N.H. Rev. Stat. § 540-A:3 (entry); § 540-A:4 (remedies), permitted entry reasons in New Hampshire include:

• Repairs and maintenance
• Inspections
• Showing to prospective tenants
• Showing to prospective buyers
• Agreed-upon services
• Emergencies

What counts as an emergency in New Hampshire?

Emergency entry (fire, flood, gas leak, burst pipe) permitted without notice. Bed-bug remediation within 72 hours of the landlord receiving notice of infestation is also permitted.

What are your remedies if your landlord enters without notice in New Hampshire?

If your landlord violates entry rules in New Hampshire, your remedies under N.H. Rev. Stat. § 540-A:3 (entry); § 540-A:4 (remedies) may include:

• Court order stopping future violations (injunction)
• Right to terminate the lease
• Actual damages
• Statutory damages (fixed by statute)
• Attorney's fees and court costs

In practice, start by documenting the unauthorized entry (photos, texts, a written log), then send a written objection citing the statute. If violations continue, consult a local tenant-rights attorney or your state's housing court.

Important New Hampshire-specific notes

New Hampshire (RSA 540-A:3) requires 'notice which is adequate under the circumstances' at reasonable times. Typically 24-48 hours in practice. Entry must be for a legitimate purpose — inspections, repairs, agreed services, showings, or other reasonable and lawful functions commonly associated with ownership. RSA 540-A prohibits landlord harassment or unreasonable interference with the tenant's quiet enjoyment. One specific rule: for bed-bug inspections, the landlord must give at least 48 hours' WRITTEN notice. RSA 540-A:4 provides strong remedies — a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per day per violation, reasonable attorney's fees, and injunctive relief.