New Hampshire Eviction Process
Court: Circuit Court, District Division in the district where property is located
25
Min. days
(uncontested)
(uncontested)
50
Typical days
300
Worst case
(contested)
(contested)
Yes
Self-rep OK?
Notice Types
7-Day
7-Day Notice to Pay or Quit
Tenant has 7 days to pay all rent due or vacate. RSA 540:3.
30-Day
30-Day Notice to Terminate (violation/no-fault)
30 days for all other termination grounds.
30-Day
30-Day Notice to Terminate (month-to-month)
30-day notice to end month-to-month tenancy.
Step-by-Step Process
1
Serve written eviction notice
Personal service or certified mail. Notice must state the specific reason for eviction.
2
Wait for notice period +7 days
7 days for nonpayment, 30 days for other grounds.
3
File possessory action at Circuit Court +1 days
File at Circuit Court, District Division. Attach lease and notice. Pay filing fee.
4
Court schedules hearing +14 days
Hearing typically 14–21 days after filing. Tenant receives notice of hearing.
5
Circuit Court hearing +14 days
Bring all evidence. If tenant defaults: judgment for landlord.
6
Writ of possession +3 days
Issued after judgment. Sheriff or constable enforces.
Key Warnings
- New Hampshire requires landlords to state a reason for eviction in the notice. RSA 540:2.
- Self-help eviction is prohibited. RSA 540-A:3.
- Tenant has right to cure nonpayment once per 12-month period (RSA 540:9-a) if they pay in full before judgment.
Court & Filing Details
| Court | Circuit Court, District Division in the district where property is located |
|---|---|
| Filing Fee | $90–$140 |
| Statute | RSA 540 (Proceedings Against Tenants); RSA 540-A (Actions Against Landlords) |
| Find the Court | Circuit Court, District Division in the district where property is located |
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