Bill > HB1375

This bill prohibits landlords from charging more than one application fee to the same prospective tenant within a 12-month period, regardless of how many rental units the tenant applies for or leases. The bill defines an "application fee" broadly to include any charges related to processing a rental application, such as background checks, credit checks, or administrative costs, whether for an initial application, renewal, or applications to different units under the same landlord or agent. By limiting application fees, the bill aims to reduce the financial burden on tenants seeking rental housing, who often must pay multiple application fees when applying to several properties. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving landlords and property managers time to adjust their application practices to comply with the new restriction. This change is part of New Hampshire's Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 540-A:3, which governs landlord-tenant relations and seeks to protect tenants from excessive fees.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2246&inflect=2