NJ Has Rent Control

New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Laws

Key legal requirements for residential landlords and property managers operating in New Jersey.

Governing statute: New Jersey Statutes §§ 2A:18-51 to 2A:18-84 and § 46:8-1 et seq.

Security Deposit

Maximum Limit

One and a half months' rent

Return Deadline

30 days (5 days for fire/flood/condemnation)

Itemized Statement

Required

Maintenance & Repairs

Landlord Obligations

Maintain premises in habitable condition, comply with health/housing codes, provide heat (Oct 1 - May 1), hot water, maintain structural components

Tenant Remedies

Report to housing inspector, rent withholding (via court), repair and deduct, or terminate for uninhabitable conditions

Emergency Repair Timeline

Reasonable time; immediate for heat failures during heating season

Notice Requirements

Entry Notice

Reasonable notice (no statutory minimum)

Rent Increase

30 days

Lease Termination

No standard termination right for landlords (NJ is anti-eviction; need just cause)

Eviction Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent

30 days

Lease Violation

30 days

Unconditional Quit

Not applicable

Rent Control

Many municipalities have rent control ordinances (Newark, Jersey City, Hoboken, etc.). Varies significantly by city.

Disclaimer: This is a general summary of New Jersey landlord-tenant law and does not constitute legal advice. Local ordinances may impose additional requirements. Consult a qualified New Jersey attorney for specific situations. Last reviewed: 2026-05.

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