N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 358-A: § 358-A:10
Private Actions.
Operative Text
I. Any person injured by another's use of any method, act or practice declared unlawful under this chapter may bring an action for damages and for such equitable relief, including an injunction, as the court deems necessary and proper. If the court finds for the plaintiff, recovery shall be in the amount of actual damages or $1,000, whichever is greater. If the court finds that the use of the method of competition or the act or practice was a willful or knowing violation of this chapter, it shall award as much as 3 times, but not less than 2 times, such amount. In addition, a prevailing plaintiff shall be awarded the costs of the suit and reasonable attorney's fees, as determined by the court. Any attempted waiver of the right to the damages set forth in this paragraph shall be void and unenforceable. Injunctive relief shall be available to private individuals under this chapter without bond, subject to the discretion of the court. II. Upon commencement of any action brought under this section, the clerk of the court shall mail a copy of the complaint or other initial pleadings to the attorney general and, upon entry of any judgment or decree in the action, shall mail a copy of such judgment or decree to the attorney general.
New Hampshire Revised Statutes § 358-A:10 establishes a private right of action for individuals harmed by unlawful trade practices under Chapter 358-A. A successful plaintiff may recover actual damages or $1,000—whichever is greater—and if the violation was willful or knowing, the court must multiply that amount by two to three times. Attorney's fees and court costs are also available to a prevailing plaintiff, and any attempt to waive these damage rights is void. The court clerk is required to notify the state Attorney General when such a lawsuit is filed and when a judgment is entered.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in New Hampshire should be aware that § 358-A:10 gives individuals a direct path to court if they believe a rental-related practice violates the state's consumer protection chapter. Compliant operators generally review their leasing practices, advertising, and fee structures to ensure they do not constitute unfair or deceptive acts, since willful violations can trigger damages of two to three times the base award plus attorney's fees. Because the Attorney General is automatically notified of any lawsuit filed under this section, a private complaint can also draw regulatory attention.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 358-A:10, tenants who believe they have been harmed by an unlawful trade practice have the right to file a civil lawsuit seeking damages, with a minimum recovery of $1,000 even if actual damages are lower. If the conduct is found to be willful or knowing, the court may award two to three times that amount, along with attorney's fees and court costs. Tenants exploring this path may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider to understand how this provision might apply to their circumstances.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 20, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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