This bill introduces a new provision to the existing law that prohibits landlords from charging more than one application fee to the same prospective tenant within a 12-month period. The new language specifies that this restriction applies regardless of the number of rental units the tenant applies for or leases. The term "application fee" is defined to encompass any fees associated with processing a rental application, including background checks, credit checks, and administrative costs, whether for an initial application, renewal, or for applying to another unit managed by the same landlord or agent.

The bill amends RSA 540-A:3 by adding a new paragraph (VIII-a) that outlines these prohibitions. It aims to protect tenants from incurring multiple application fees within a short timeframe, thereby promoting fairer rental practices. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 540-A:3
HB1375 text: 540-A:3