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New Jersey Landlord Guide

Everything you need to know about landlord-tenant laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and property management in New Jersey.

Security Deposit
1.5 months rent maximum
Return Period
30 days after lease ends
Non-Payment Notice
No notice required, but 30-day demand common practice
Rent Control
No

New Jersey Rental Market Overview

New Jersey has one of the strongest tenant protection regimes in the nation with numerous rent-controlled municipalities and strict eviction requirements. The state benefits from proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, driving strong rental demand in northern and central Jersey. Jersey City, Newark, and Hoboken have significant rent control. Landlords must understand local ordinances as they vary significantly by municipality.

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit

1.5 months rent maximum

Return Timeline

30 days after lease ends (5 days for fire/flood)

Allowed Deductions

  • Unpaid rent
  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Breach of lease damages

Eviction Process

Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent
No notice required, but 30-day demand common practice
Lease Violation
Notice to cease, then 3-day notice to quit
Month-to-Month Termination
30 days (most tenants protected by Anti-Eviction Act)

Court Process

File complaint in Superior Court Special Civil Part. NJ Anti-Eviction Act limits grounds for eviction. Process can take 2-4 months.

Rent Control Information

Over 100 NJ municipalities have some form of rent control. Check local ordinances. Rent increases often capped at CPI or specific percentage.

Cities with Local Rent Control:

Jersey CityNewarkHobokenEast OrangeElizabethFort LeeWeehawken

Required Landlord Disclosures

New Jersey law requires landlords to provide the following disclosures to tenants:

  • Lead-based paint (pre-1978 buildings)
  • Flood zone status
  • Security deposit bank information with interest
  • Truth in Renting statement
  • Window guard notice (if children under 10)
  • Multiple dwelling registration

Late Fee Rules

No statutory limit, but must be reasonable. 5-day grace period required by law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manage New Jersey Properties with UnitHub

Stay compliant with New Jersey landlord-tenant laws. UnitHub helps you track security deposits, send proper notices, and automate rent collection.