New Hampshire House Bill HB283

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 11/15/23
• Engrossed: 2/16/24
• Refer: 2/16/24
• Report Pass: 4/25/24
• Enrolled: 6/10/24
• Chaptered: 6/20/24
• Passed: 6/20/24

Caption

Relative to rental application fees charged to prospective tenants.

Impact

If enacted, HB 283 will amend existing laws regarding prohibited practices related to rental application fees. Specifically, it will require that landlords return any amounts collected beyond the actual costs associated with background checks and administrative expenses within a specified timeframe if the rental unit is not ultimately rented to the applicant. This provision aims to enhance consumer protection for renters by ensuring that they are not unfairly charged for application processes that do not result in rental agreements.

Summary

House Bill 283 is a legislative measure focused on regulating rental application fees charged to prospective tenants in New Hampshire. The bill seeks to limit the fees landlords can impose during the application or renewal process for residential properties. One of its key provisions mandates that landlords must disclose, in writing, the exact amount of any fees and any requirements for a criminal background or credit check prior to collecting these fees. This transparency aims to protect potential tenants from unexpected costs associated with the rental application process.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its emphasis on consumer rights, it may also face opposition from landlords who might view the restrictions on fees and the requirement for refunds as burdensome. The framing of tenancy regulations has often sparked debate about the balance between landlord rights and tenant protections. Therefore, stakeholders including real estate associations and tenant advocacy groups are likely to engage in discussions concerning the bill's provisions and their implications on the rental market.