What Is a Private Road Agreement in NH Real Estate?

🏡 What Is a Private Road Agreement in NH Real Estate?

Private roads are common in New Hampshire, especially across rural areas like Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Rumney, Wentworth, and many parts of Central NH.

Because these roads aren’t maintained by the town, buyers need to understand how maintenance, repairs, plowing, and long-term costs are handled.

That’s where a private road agreement comes in — and most lenders require one.

Here’s what NH buyers should know before purchasing a home on a private road.

⭐ What Is a Private Road Agreement?

A private road agreement is a legally recorded document outlining how homeowners who share a private road are responsible for:

✔ Maintenance

✔ Repairs

✔ Snow removal

✔ Gravel or paving

✔ Drainage and culvert upkeep

✔ Cost-sharing

This agreement ensures the road remains safe and passable year-round.

⭐ Why Private Road Agreements Matter in NH

In New Hampshire, private roads can become a major issue if responsibilities aren’t clearly defined. Without an agreement:

⚠️ Neighbors may disagree on who pays

⚠️ Roads may fall into poor condition

⚠️ Emergency vehicles may struggle to access the property

⚠️ Lenders may refuse to issue a mortgage

⚠️ Buyers may inherit expensive repair obligations

A clear agreement protects homeowners and lenders alike.

⭐ What’s Typically Included in a Private Road Agreement?

A complete agreement usually covers:

✔ Who maintains the road

✔ How costs are split (evenly or by usage/lot size)

✔ How snow removal is handled

✔ Rules for grading, gravel, and paving

✔ Drainage and ditch maintenance

✔ Speed limits or safety rules

✔ How disputes are resolved

✔ Who is responsible for damage repair

✔ Access rights for utility and service vehicles

Some agreements also include rules for:

• Parking

• Seasonal road closures

• Heavy equipment use

• Future improvements

⭐ Do Lenders Require a Private Road Agreement?

Most do — especially:

✔ FHA

✔ VA

✔ USDA

✔ Many conventional lenders

Lenders want to ensure:

• The road will remain accessible

• All homeowners share responsibility

• Emergency services can reach the home

• The buyer won’t face unexpected costs

Without an agreement, financing may be delayed or denied.

⭐ What NH Buyers Should Check Before Closing

Before buying a home on a private road, confirm:

✔ A written, recorded road agreement exists

✔ All homeowners on the road are included

✔ Snow removal is clearly assigned

✔ Cost-sharing rules are reasonable

✔ The road is drivable in all seasons

✔ No neighbor disputes over maintenance

✔ The lender approves the agreement

If an agreement doesn’t exist, the seller may need to help create one.

⭐ Bottom Line

Private road agreements are essential for New Hampshire properties located off town-maintained roads.

They ensure safe access, protect homeowners from unexpected costs, and keep lenders satisfied.

Before closing, always verify the road’s condition and the responsibilities tied to its maintenance.

⭐ Keywords

nh private road agreement, plymouth nh private road rules, campton nh road maintenance, thornton nh rural property access, rumney nh private lane issues, central nh lender requirements

Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com