New Hampshire Security Deposit Demand Letter
A free New Hampshire security deposit demand letter that follows New Hampshire law. Fill in the boxes, check the rules below, then print or copy it. Keep a copy and proof of how you sent it.
What New Hampshire law says
| Deposit return deadline | Within 30 days after the tenancy ends. Source: RSA 540-A:7, I |
|---|---|
| Itemized deductions | Yes. Written, itemized list of damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, describing each repair with satisfactory evidence it was or will be done (receipts, estimates, invoices); unpaid rent or other charges must be itemized with the period covered. Source: RSA 540-A:7 |
| Penalty for withholding | Landlord who fails to return the deposit/interest or itemize as required is liable for twice the amount of the deposit plus any interest due, less amounts already paid and lawful deductions. Source: RSA 540-A:8, I |
| Wear and tear / move-out charges | Not defined by statute. The landlord may deduct repair costs for damage 'excluding reasonable wear and tear,' and must give a written itemized list describing each repair with particularity plus satisfactory evidence (receipts, estimates, invoices) that the repair has been or will be done. Unpaid rent, agreed tax shares, and other lawful lease charges may also be deducted. Source: RSA 540-A:7, I-II |
Fill in your letter
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To: [landlord or manager name], [landlord address]
From: [your name], former tenant at [rental address]
I moved out and returned the keys on [move-out date]. I paid a security deposit of $[deposit amount]. I gave you my forwarding address in writing on [date you gave your address].
Under RSA 540-A:7, I, a landlord must return the deposit, or send an itemized list of lawful deductions, by the deadline set in that law. I have not received [the deposit / an itemized list].
Please send $[amount owed] to [forwarding address] within [number] days of this letter.
If I do not receive it, I plan to file a claim in small claims court and ask for any additional amount allowed by RSA 540-A:8, I.
Date: [today's date]
Tenant: [your name]
Signature: ____________________
How to send it: use a method you can prove — certified mail with return receipt, or email/text if your lease allows notices that way. Write down the date.
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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.