Short answer
New Hampshire requires a set of specific disclosures rather than a full condition report. Before you sign, the seller or their agent must give you notices about radon, arsenic in well water, lead, PFAS and flood risk (RSA 477:4-a). For a 1 to 4 family home, the seller must also give details about a private well and septic system, insulation, whether the home is in a federal flood hazard zone, and whether there's a buried heating oil tank (RSA 477:4-d).
What are the RSA 477:4-a notices?
They are standard statements about radon, arsenic in well water, lead, PFAS and flood risk, and you sign to show you received them. They're general warnings, not test results: they tell you these are known issues in New Hampshire so you can decide what to test. The law says leaving them out doesn't make the seller or agent liable by itself, so don't count on them as your only check.
What must the seller tell you about the house itself?
- Private water supply: the type and location of the well, any malfunctions, when it was installed, the date of the latest water test and any problems found.
- Private septic system: the type and location, any malfunctions, the date it was last serviced and who serviced it.
- Insulation: the type and where it is.
- Flood zone: whether the home is in a federally designated flood hazard area.
- Buried oil tank: whether there's an underground heating oil storage tank.
If the seller doesn't know something, the law asks them to say so in writing.
Are there other required disclosures?
- Condos: a notice that you can ask the association for its documents; see condo documents a buyer can ask for.
- Older homes: the federal lead paint disclosure for most homes built before 1978; see lead paint when buying an older home.
- Former meth production sites and utility charges for energy improvements the seller knows about.
What doesn't a seller have to disclose?
New Hampshire doesn't require a full statement of every defect, and a seller doesn't have to bring up a past death or felony on the property unless you ask and they know. Many sellers fill out a broader property disclosure form anyway, but the best protection is your own inspection, water test and questions. See home inspection, radon and arsenic.
Why does the lender care?
Flood zones, well and septic systems and buried oil tanks can each affect your loan: flood insurance may be required, some loans need water or septic tests, and insurers often ask about oil tanks. Share the disclosures with Tom early so there are no surprises. See flood zones and home heating in NH.
Sources
- NH RSA 477:4-a, Radon, arsenic, lead, PFAS and flood notices
- NH RSA 477:4-c, Water supply and sewage disposal disclosure
- NH RSA 477:4-d, Disclosures for one to four family homes
- NH RSA 477:4-e, History of property
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.