If you’ve recently moved out of a rental in New Mexico, you’re probably wondering when your security deposit will be returned—and what your landlord is allowed to keep. Here’s what the law says and what you can do if things don’t go as expected. 
The 30-Day Rule In New Mexico, landlords are required by law to return your security deposit within 30 days after the lease ends and you’ve moved out. That 30-day window gives the landlord time to: 
What Can Be Legally Deducted? Your landlord can subtract costs for: But they cannot deduct for normal wear (like faded paint or minor scuffs) or repairs that are their… Read More
How Much Can a Landlord Charge for a Security Deposit in New Mexico?
If you’re getting ready to sign a new lease, one of the first costs you’ll likely face is the security deposit. This upfront payment helps protect the landlord in case of damage, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs—but how much can they legally charge? In New Mexico, the rules around security deposits depend on the length of your lease. Here’s what you need to know before you sign: 
Leases Less Than One Year: 1 Month Max If your rental agreement is for less than one year, your landlord cannot charge more than one month’s rent as a security deposit. Example:If your rent is $900/month and your lease is for… Read More
Can Your Landlord Just Walk In? Know Your Right to Privacy in New Mexico
You’re relaxing at home, and suddenly—there’s a knock at the door… or worse, your landlord just lets themselves in. It might feel invasive, and in many cases, it’s not legal. In New Mexico, tenants have the right to privacy—and landlords must follow the rules before entering your home. 
The 24-Hour Notice Rule Landlords in New Mexico are required to give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental unit. This notice must include: Whether it’s for repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to a future tenant—you should always be informed in advance. 
Emergencies Are the Exception There’s one big exception to the 24-hour rule: emergencies.… Read More
Know Your Rights: What UORRA Means for Renters in New Mexico
If you’re renting a home or apartment in New Mexico, you’re protected by a law called the Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act (UORRA). Whether you’re brand new to renting or have lived in the same place for years, UORRA gives you important rights—and knowing them can help you feel more confident and secure in your home. Here’s a breakdown of what this law means for you as a tenant. 1. You Have the Right to a Safe and Habitable Home Your landlord is legally required to keep your rental safe, clean, and livable. That means: If your home becomes unsafe or unlivable and your landlord doesn’t fix it within a… Read More
What to Do When Your Rental Needs Repairs in New Mexico
Is your heater broken in the middle of winter? Mold spreading in the bathroom? Plumbing issues that just won’t go away? When a rental issue starts to affect your health or safety, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it may be a violation of your rights as a tenant. The good news is, New Mexico law gives you tools to take action when your landlord isn’t making necessary repairs. Step 1: Notify Your Landlord In Writing The first step is always to send a written notice to your landlord. This can be a letter, email, or even a text—just make sure it’s something you can save and reference later. Be clear… Read More
Continue ReadingCan Your Landlord Raise the Rent in New Mexico? Here’s What the Law Says
Rent increases can be stressful—especially if you’re already trying to manage a tight budget. But in New Mexico, there are clear rules about when and how your landlord can raise your rent. Whether you’re in a fixed-term lease or on a month-to-month agreement, here’s what you need to know: 
Fixed-Term Leases: Your Rent Is Locked In If you signed a lease for a set period of time—like 6 months or a year—that’s called a fixed-term lease. Your landlord cannot raise the rent during that time.That’s part of the agreement you both signed. Unless you agree to modify the lease in writing, your rent stays the same until the lease… Read More
What Can a Landlord Deduct from Your Security Deposit in New Mexico?
You’ve packed your boxes, cleaned the apartment, and turned in your keys—now you’re waiting for your security deposit. But when it comes back with deductions (or doesn’t come back at all), it’s important to understand what your landlord is legally allowed to charge you for. In New Mexico, landlords can’t just keep your deposit without reason. Here’s what they can deduct—and what they can’t. Allowed Deductions 
Not Allowed Landlords cannot deduct for: They also can’t charge you for issues that were already there when you moved in—this is why having a move-in checklist with photos is so important! When Should You Get Your Deposit Back? In New Mexico,… Read More
Breaking a Lease in New Mexico: What You Need to Know
Life happens. Maybe you got a new job in another city, had a change in your financial situation, or need to move for personal reasons. Whatever the case, if you’re thinking about ending your lease early, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a renter in New Mexico. Are You Still Responsible for Rent? Yes—but not entirely. If you move out before your lease ends, you may still be responsible for paying rent until the unit is re-rented. However, New Mexico law requires landlords to make a reasonable effort to re-rent the unit as soon as possible. This is called mitigating damages. In simple terms: your landlord can’t… Read More
Continue ReadingUnderstanding Eviction Rules in New Mexico: Fixed-Term vs. Month-to-Month Leases
Whether you’re renting an apartment in Albuquerque or a home in Las Cruces, knowing your rights as a tenant is essential—especially when it comes to evictions and lease terminations. In New Mexico, the rules vary depending on the type of lease you have. Here’s what you need to know: 
Fixed-Term Leases: More Protection for Tenants A fixed-term lease (usually 6 months or 1 year) gives you the strongest legal protection. Once you’ve signed a lease for a set period of time, your landlord can’t just ask you to leave without a valid reason. You can only be evicted for “cause”, which includes things like: In these cases, the landlord… Read More
What to Do If Your Landlord Isn’t Addressing Your Concerns in New Mexico
Renting a home or apartment should come with the peace of mind that your landlord will maintain the property and respond to concerns in a timely manner. But what happens when that doesn’t go as expected? Whether it’s a maintenance issue, unsafe living conditions, or a violation of your lease terms, you have rights—and there are steps you can take to protect them. Step 1: Put It in Writing Before anything else, start by sending a written complaint to your landlord. This can be an email or a letter, but it’s important to document the issue and give your landlord a chance to respond. Be clear and detailed in your… Read More
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