What are the laws regarding locking tenants out of their rental properties?
In New Hampshire, landlord and tenant laws spell out the duties and limitations of both parties in a rental agreement. According to Chapter 540-A of the New Hampshire Statutes, a landlord may not deny a tenant access to their rental property or prevent them from entering. The law prohibits a landlord from locking out tenants from their rental property or even threatening to do so. This includes changing locks, removing doors, or blocking entry with furniture or other objects. If a tenant breaches a rental agreement, such as not paying rent, a landlord may take legal action to evict the tenant. However, the landlord must follow the terms of the lease, as well as the process outlined in New Hampshire law. The landlord must provide a written notice to the tenant that the lease is being terminated. Then the landlord must file a formal complaint in a court of law and receive a judgment in order to legally remove the tenant from the rental property. Therefore, a landlord cannot legally lock out a tenant without following the proper procedure. Locking out a tenant is considered an illegal act of retaliatory eviction, and it could result in the landlord having to pay damages or facing other legal repercussions.
Related FAQs
Are tenants legally allowed to withhold rent if the landlord fails to make repairs?What are the landlord’s legal obligations in regards to making repairs to the rental property?
What tenants’ rights are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act?
What are the legal consequences of a landlord failing to make repairs or provide a habitable living environment?
What rights do tenants have in regards to making alterations to their rental units?
What is the average length of a notice to vacate?
What are the rules regarding repairs and maintenance?
What are the legal obligations of a landlord in regards to the return of a tenant’s security deposit?
Are pets allowed in rental properties?
What is the law regarding rent increases?
Related Blog Posts
Understanding How Landlord and Tenant Law Works - July 31, 2023Tips for Landlords: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities Under Landlord and Tenant Law - August 7, 2023
The Key Components of a Landlord and Tenant Agreement - August 14, 2023
What is a Landlord’s Obligation to their Tenants? - August 21, 2023
The Basics of Evictions and How Landlord and Tenant Law Offers Protection - August 28, 2023