New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB519

Introduced
12/14/23  
Refer
12/14/23  

Caption

Relative to evictions based on the owner's intent to renovate the property.

Impact

The implementation of SB519 introduces new evidentiary requirements for landlords aiming to evict tenants under the guise of renovation. These adjustments aim to provide greater protections for tenants, ensuring that they cannot be hastily evicted without adequate notice or justification. The discretionary stay of evictions for up to six months is a critical addition, allowing courts to pause evictions in certain situations, thereby granting tenants more time to secure alternative accommodations. This change is expected to impact the dynamics between landlords and tenants substantially, with a focus on tenant's rights.

Summary

Senate Bill 519 (SB519) focuses on the regulations surrounding evictions connected to a landlord's intent to renovate, repair, or rehabilitate rental properties. The bill stipulates that when an eviction notice is issued for these reasons, landlords must provide tenants with a minimum of 60 days notice. The notice must detail the specific work intended to be performed and the estimated timeline for completion. Additionally, landlords must demonstrate that the planned work cannot be carried out safely while the unit is occupied and that the tenant has been offered a suitable alternative unit if available.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB519 appears to be mixed, with supporters highlighting the need for stronger tenant protections and fair notice practices. Advocates for tenant rights view this bill favorably as it addresses the worrisome trend of landlords using renovations as a pretext for evictions. However, some detractors, primarily from the landlord community, may view the bill as an additional layer of regulation that could complicate legitimate eviction processes. This division reflects broader concerns about balancing the rights of property owners against the need for tenant security.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB519 arise from the changes to existing eviction procedures and the new requirements placed on landlords. Critics may argue that the additional evidentiary standards could hamper a landlord’s ability to manage their properties effectively, especially in urgent renovations. Conversely, proponents believe that these measures are necessary to prevent abuse of eviction processes, ensuring that tenants are treated fairly and are not unjustly displaced. The ongoing debate highlights the broader conflict between landlord interests and tenant protections in housing policy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB401

Relative to evictions based on the owner's intent to renovate the property.

NH HB340

Relative to the transfer of residential property.

NH HB185

Relative to the determination of parental rights and responsibilities based on shared parenting and shared access to the child's records.

NH HB379

Requiring notice be provided to tenants during residential eviction proceedings regarding legal counsel.

NH SB164

Relative to consideration of biodiversity in the land and community heritage investment program.

NH HB57

Relative to the state minimum hourly rate.

NH HB456

Relative to collecting road tolls on the output of separately metered electric vehicle chargers.

NH HB190

Relative to the duration of unemployment benefits.

NH HB346

Relative to the right of any infant born alive to appropriate medical care and treatment.

NH HB233

Relative to useful thermal energy under the renewable portfolio standards.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.