N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 540-B: § 540-B:10
Security Deposit.
Operative Text
The owner or agent of the owner of a shared facility may require a security deposit in an amount to be determined by the owner or agent of the owner. If the deposit amount is more than the equivalent of 30 days rent, there shall be a written instrument acknowledging receipt and explaining where the deposit shall be maintained and when it shall be returned. If there is no written agreement, the deposit shall be returned within 20 days after the occupant has vacated.
Under N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 540-B:10, owners of shared facilities (such as rooming houses or similar arrangements) may collect a security deposit in any amount they choose. However, if that deposit exceeds the equivalent of 30 days' rent, the law requires a written instrument that acknowledges receipt of the deposit and specifies where it will be held and when it will be returned. When no written agreement addresses the return timeline, the deposit must be returned within 20 days after the occupant vacates.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 540-B:10, operators of shared facilities who collect a security deposit exceeding 30 days' rent are generally expected to provide occupants with a written receipt that identifies where the funds are held and the conditions and timing of their return. Compliant operators typically document these details clearly at the start of the occupancy. When no written agreement specifies a return date, the deposit is due back within 20 days of the occupant vacating the premises.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 540-B:10 gives occupants of shared facilities certain protections regarding security deposits — particularly when the deposit exceeds 30 days' rent, at which point a written instrument documenting the deposit's location and return conditions is required. If no written agreement exists, occupants are generally entitled to have their deposit returned within 20 days of moving out. Those who believe their deposit has been improperly withheld may wish to review their rights under § 540-B:10, consult a tenant-rights organization in New Hampshire, or explore available civil remedies.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 20, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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