New Hampshire Senate debates amendment to landlord-tenant eviction rules

The New Hampshire Senate Commerce Committee convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss critical housing legislation that could significantly impact renters and landlords across the state. A central focus of the meeting was House Bill 60, which aims to amend existing rental agreements and eviction processes amid a housing crisis characterized by a rental vacancy rate of less than 1%.

One of the most contentious points raised was the proposed change to the minimum lease term, which would extend it from six months to twelve months. Advocates for this amendment argue that shorter leases create instability for tenants, making each tenancy feel like a probationary period. They expressed concerns that this could lead to increased homelessness, as tenants may face eviction without sufficient cause if their lease expires. The amendment seeks to protect long-term tenants from being evicted without reason, ensuring that eviction notices must be filed within six months of a lease's expiration.

Senator Murphy, a renter himself, voiced support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of upholding contracts while acknowledging the current broken state of the housing market. He described the proposed changes as a necessary compromise to stabilize the rental landscape. Conversely, other committee members, including Senators Fenn and Rivkin, expressed skepticism about the bill's necessity, arguing that it could undermine housing stability and lead to discrimination against renters.

The committee ultimately voted to amend House Bill 60, incorporating changes that aim to balance the rights of landlords with the need for tenant protections. The discussions highlighted the ongoing struggle to address the housing crisis in New Hampshire, with lawmakers grappling with how best to support both renters and property owners.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these legislative changes will be closely watched by residents, particularly those facing housing insecurity. The outcomes of this bill could shape the future of rental agreements and tenant rights in New Hampshire, reflecting the broader challenges of the state's housing market.