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New Mexico Landlord-Tenant Laws

New Mexico limits the security deposit to one month's rent for leases shorter than one year (no statutory cap on longer leases), and the deposit must be returned within 30 days. Landlords must give 24 hours' written notice before entering.

Informational summary, not legal advice. Landlord-tenant law changes and local ordinances may add requirements. Verify the current statute (N.M. Stat. Ann. 47-8 (Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act); 47-8-18 (deposits)) or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney before acting. All rentals must also comply with the federal Fair Housing Act — you may not select tenants or write listings based on a protected class.

Key New Mexico rental rules at a glance

Security deposit limit1 month rent (leases under 1 year; no limit on longer leases)
Deposit return deadline30 days
Landlord entry notice24 hours
Month-to-month termination notice30 days
Governing statuteN.M. Stat. Ann. 47-8 (Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act); 47-8-18 (deposits)

New Mexico rental law — common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in New Mexico?

1 month rent (leases under 1 year; no limit on longer leases). This is a general summary of N.M. Stat. Ann. 47-8 (Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act); 47-8-18 (deposits); verify the current statute or consult a New Mexico attorney, as rules change and local ordinances may add requirements.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in New Mexico?

30 days after the tenant moves out, per N.M. Stat. Ann. 47-8 (Uniform Owner-Resident Relations Act); 47-8-18 (deposits) (general summary — confirm the current deadline).

How much notice must a New Mexico landlord give before entering?

24 hours. Always check the lease and the current statute; this is informational only, not legal advice.

How much notice ends a month-to-month tenancy in New Mexico?

30 days. Notice rules vary by situation — verify the current New Mexico statute or consult an attorney.

Renting out a property in New Mexico?

List for rent by owner with a flat-fee listing, screen applicants fairly, and reach renters directly. Our For Rent By Owner guide walks through pricing, marketing, lawful screening, and the lease.

List your rental →For Rent By Owner guideNew Mexico rentals

Rental laws in other states

ListMyHomes.com is a licensed brokerage that acts only as a neutral facilitator. This page is general educational information, not legal advice, and may not reflect the most recent changes or local ordinances. Always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney for your situation.