This bill amends current law regarding residential security deposits by allowing landlords to require a security deposit of up to two months' rent from applicants who do not meet specified approval criteria. The existing law, as stated in RSA 540-A:6, I(a), prohibits landlords from demanding a security deposit exceeding one month's rent or $100, but the new language except as provided for in RSA 540-A:9 creates an exception for applicants who fail to meet certain criteria. The bill outlines specific conditions under which a higher deposit may be required, including factors such as credit score, income, prior eviction history, outstanding judgments, and rental history. Additionally, the bill establishes disclosure and re-screening requirements for landlords. If a landlord requires a higher security deposit, they must provide written notice to the applicant detailing the grounds for the deposit and informing them of their right to request a re-screening. Tenants can request a re-screening at their own expense no more than once every six months, and if they meet the landlord's criteria, the additional deposit requirement must be removed. The bill also clarifies that landlords are not compelled to accept a higher deposit or approve applicants who do not meet their criteria, and it maintains the landlord's discretion in setting approval standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 540-A:6
HB1336 text: 540-A:6