New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Law Guide

New Jersey's Anti-Eviction Act and Truth in Renting laws provide strong tenant protections. The state has specific requirements for security deposits, lease disclosures, and detailed eviction procedures.

Security Deposit

Limit: 1.5 months' rent for security deposits, plus additional pet deposit allowed.

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

Rent Increases

No statutory requirement for month-to-month tenancies, but 30 days is customary. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.

Entry Notice

Reasonable notice required as specified in lease, typically 24 hours except in emergencies.

Key Statutes

  • New Jersey Statutes §46:8-19 - Security Deposits
  • New Jersey Statutes §46:8-21.1 - Truth in Renting Act
  • New Jersey Statutes §2A:18-61.1 - Anti-Eviction Act
  • New Jersey Statutes §46:8-27 - Landlord Obligations

Common Issues

  • Not holding deposits in interest-bearing accounts
  • Not returning deposits with interest within 30 days
  • Failure to provide Truth in Renting statement
  • Not providing itemized deductions
  • Improper eviction procedures under Anti-Eviction Act