The bill, HB 1598-FN, amends New Hampshire's landlord-tenant laws to streamline the eviction process, particularly for cases involving non-payment of rent or breaches of rental agreements. Key changes include the requirement for tenants to file an appearance and answer within specified timeframes, with the language changed from "must" to "shall." Additionally, tenants who file post-judgment motions are now required to continue paying rent during the appeal process. The bill allows landlords to claim unpaid rent during eviction proceedings and establishes a cap of $1,500 on money judgments related to these claims. It also stipulates that any tenant default will preclude discretionary stays of eviction, while granting the court authority to issue a stay of up to 75 days under certain circumstances.

Further amendments enhance the court's authority in addressing tenant violations, allowing for immediate eviction of violators and requiring evidence exchange prior to hearings. The bill clarifies that delays in sheriff service do not invalidate a writ of possession issued at the time, and it explicitly prohibits tenants and their guests from willfully damaging property or engaging in actions that threaten the health or safety of others. The act is set to take effect 90 days after passage, on October 8, 2026, and aims to strengthen landlord rights while clearly defining tenant responsibilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 540:12, 540:13
As Amended by the House: 540:13, 540:13-c, 540:14, 540-A:2, 540-A:4
As Amended by the Senate: 540:13, 540:13-c, 540:14, 540-A:2, 540-A:4, 540-A:3
Version adopted by both bodies: 540:13, 540:13-c, 540:14, 540-A:2, 540-A:4, 540-A:3
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 540:13, 540:13-c, 540:14, 540-A:2, 540-A:4, 540-A:3
HB1598 text: 540:12, 540:13