What happens if the eviction notice was defective?

A defective notice (wrong number of days, not in writing, improper service) is a defense to eviction [§ 540:3]. You must raise this defense at the hearing — do not simply ignore the notice.

Can I request a jury trial in an eviction case?

Yes. New Hampshire allows jury trials in eviction (landlord-tenant proceeding) proceedings. You typically must make the request in writing before the hearing.

How long do I have to appeal if I lose the eviction case?

The appeal period in New Hampshire is 5 days after the judgment. You may need to post a bond or pay rent into the court during the appeal.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

New Hampshire Tenant Defenses in Eviction Cases

Q: Can I be evicted in retaliation for complaining about conditions?

No. New Hampshire prohibits retaliatory eviction [§ 540:13-a].

What people often ask about after receiving papers.

If you are facing eviction in New Hampshire, there may be defenses available that could delay, reduce, or defeat the landlord's claim. These defenses depend on the specific facts and the procedures the landlord followed.

Improper notice

The most common defense. If the Eviction notice did not comply with New Hampshire law — wrong number of days, wrong format, not properly served — the eviction may be dismissed. For nonpayment, the required notice is 7 days §540:3. For lease violations, it is 30 days §540:3.

Retaliation

New Hampshire prohibits Retaliatory eviction §540:13-a. If the landlord files for eviction shortly after you exercised a legal right (reporting code violations, requesting repairs, joining a tenant organization), you may have a retaliation defense.

Habitability / failure to maintain

If the landlord has failed to maintain the property in habitable condition §48-A:14, this may serve as a defense to eviction — particularly if the tenant withheld rent because of the landlord's failure to repair.

Payment / cure

If you paid the full amount owed within the 7-day cure period, the eviction for nonpayment cannot proceed.

Discrimination

Eviction motivated by a tenant's race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, familial status, or other protected class violates fair housing laws. This defense applies regardless of what the stated reason for eviction is.

Constructive eviction

If the landlord's actions or failure to act made the property uninhabitable, the tenant may argue Constructive eviction. This typically requires the tenant to have vacated the property.

✓Defenses must be raised at the hearing. If you have a potential defense, gather your evidence before the court date: photos, written notices, repair requests, communications, rent receipts, and witness information.

⚠Ignoring an eviction notice or failing to appear at the hearing results in a default judgment against you. Always respond, even if you plan to move out.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Landlord–Tenant)

Save photos / screenshots and write down dates.

Lease and payment history

(if relevant)

Photos or videos

of conditions

Notices, texts, emails

(with dates)

General preparation tips only. Lease terms and local practice matter.

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