New Mexico Landlord-Tenant Law Guide

New Mexico's Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act provides comprehensive regulations for rental housing. The state has specific requirements for security deposits, property maintenance, and detailed lease procedures.

Security Deposit

Limit: 1 month's rent for leases under 1 year, no limit for longer leases.

Return Period: 30 days after termination of tenancy. Must provide itemized statement of damages and deposit must be held in separate account.

Rent Increases

30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.

Entry Notice

24 hours notice required for entry, except in emergencies.

Key Statutes

  • New Mexico Statutes §47-8-18 - Security Deposits
  • New Mexico Statutes §47-8-20 - Landlord Obligations
  • New Mexico Statutes §47-8-24 - Right of Entry
  • New Mexico Statutes §47-8-33 - Eviction Process

Common Issues

  • Not holding deposits in separate accounts
  • Not returning deposits within 30 days
  • Failure to provide itemized deductions
  • Entering without 24-hour notice
  • Not maintaining habitability standards