Short answer
Under New Hampshire's Condominium Act (RSA 356-B:58), a buyer of a resale condo can ask the owners' association, in writing and before the contract date, for a set of documents: the declaration, bylaws and rules, the condo fees and any special assessments from the last three years, the reserve balance, planned major repairs, the latest financial statements, pending lawsuits and the association's insurance. The association has 10 days to provide them.
What's on the list?
- The declaration, bylaws and any formal rules
- Monthly and annual fees, and any special assessments in the last three years
- Planned capital and major maintenance spending for this year and the next two
- The reserve fund balance, including money set aside for specific projects
- The latest income statement and balance sheet
- Any lawsuits or judgments against the association
- The insurance the association carries, and the coverage owners usually add themselves
- A statement that the seller's changes to the unit aren't known to break the condo rules
- Statements about any unpaid fees or charges on the unit
Why should I read them before I sign?
The documents show what you'd really be paying for. A low reserve balance or a big repair on the schedule can mean a special assessment later. A lawsuit against the association can affect your financing. The rules tell you about pets, rentals and changes you can make to the unit. Ask your real estate agent or attorney to build time for this review into your offer.
What does the lender look at?
Lenders review the condo project as well as you. Many send the association a questionnaire about owner occupancy, delinquent dues, reserves, insurance and lawsuits. FHA and VA loans also need the project on their approved lists, or a single-unit approval. Your condo fee counts in your monthly payment when you qualify. See condo financing in NH and the FHA-approved condo list for NH towns.
Do I need my own insurance on a condo?
Usually yes. The association's master policy covers the building and common areas, but most buyers also need an HO-6 policy for the inside of the unit, their belongings and liability. The statement of the association's insurance tells you where its coverage stops. See homeowners insurance in NH.
Sources
- NH RSA 356-B:58, Resale by purchaser
- NH RSA 356-B:46, Upkeep of condominium (statements of unpaid assessments)
Checked November 2, 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.
General information only, not tax or legal advice. Program availability, eligibility and terms vary by lender and are subject to change and to underwriting approval. Not a commitment to lend.