What are the laws governing the refund of a security deposit?
In New Hampshire, the laws governing the refund of a security deposit are defined under Chapter 540-A of New Hampshire’s Landlord and Tenant Law. Generally, the landlord must return the security deposit to the tenant within thirty (30) days after the tenant has surrendered the rental premises. Before returning the deposit, the landlord is allowed to deduct damages to the premises. The landlord is obligated to provide a written itemization of any deductions taken from the security deposit within thirty (30) days as well. In the event that the tenant disagrees with any of the deductions, the tenant has the right to dispute them with the landlord. If the tenant does not dispute the deductions within fifteen (15) days, the landlord is released from any further liability in regards to the security deposit. If the tenant does dispute the deductions, the landlord must provide proof of the damage they incurred due to the tenant and may bring a civil suit against the tenant for damages that exceed the security deposit. The landlord is also obligated to pay any interest that has accrued on the security deposit if the return of the deposit is delayed beyond the thirty (30) day period. If the landlord fails to comply with any of these laws, the tenant may bring a civil suit against them for any damages incurred.
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