When tenants vacate a property, they sometimes leave behind more than memories—a variety of personal belongings can end up abandoned. In New Jersey, the handling of such items is not left to chance or landlord discretion. The Abandoned Property Act, N.J.S.A. 2A:18-72, specifically guides landlords through the legally acceptable steps to take, ensuring both the protection of tenant rights and the rights of property owners. Understanding the Abandoned Property Act in New Jersey New Jersey’s Abandoned Property Act lays the foundation for how landlords must deal with the personal property tenants ..read more

In an era where New Jersey courts have handed down multiple decisions limiting landlord’s rights, in the recent Pace v. Hamilton Cove Apartments case the New Jersey Supreme Court has recognized New Jersey landlords’ right to protect themselves against class action lawsuits. This pivotal case not only highlights the importance of well drafted lease agreements but also sets a significant precedent in limiting class action lawsuits. What is a Class Action Lawsuit A class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding in which a representative plaintiff or a group of plaintiffs (known as the class) bring a ..read more

Dealing with a tenant filing for bankruptcy can be a maze of legal complications and uncertainties. For New Jersey landlords, it’s crucial to navigate these waters with precision and understanding, ensuring you remain compliant while protecting your interests. Understanding Bankruptcy and Its Impact on Rental Agreements When a tenant files for bankruptcy, a landlord needs to understand the type of bankruptcy filed—Chapter 7 (liquidation) or Chapter 13 (reorganization)—as this determines the next steps. Bankruptcy puts an immediate hold on all attempts to collect debts, known as the automatic ..read more

In the Garden State, as marijuana laws evolve, many renters and landlords find themselves entangled in a haze of legal uncertainties. Can the scent of marijuana be grounds for an eviction notice, or do tenants have rights that protect their puff? Let’s clear the air on this burning question. Understanding New Jersey’s Marijuana Laws New Jersey’s approach to marijuana has significantly transformed with the recent legalization for recreational use. Adults over the age of 21 can now legally possess and consume marijuana within private residences. However, this legal milestone comes with its own ..read more

Introduction to Landlord Registration in New Jersey In New Jersey, landlords of residential rental dwellings must adhere to specific regulations outlined in N.J.S.A. 46:8-27 and N.J.S.A. 55:13A-1, which mandate the registration of rental units. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to significant consequences. Let’s delve into the details: Where to File a Landlord Registration Statement? Landlords with three or more residential units in a single building must register through the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), while those with two or fewer units can register through the c ..read more

Navigating the turbulent waters of tenant eviction can be daunting for landlords. It requires a careful balance between enforcing property rights and adhering to legal mandates. Tenant eviction services offer a roadmap through this complex process, ensuring that landlords can reclaim their property legally and efficiently. The Basics of Tenant Eviction Tenant eviction is a legal procedure that enables landlords to reclaim possession of their property. This process is governed by strict laws that vary by jurisdiction, requiring landlords to provide tenants with notice and the opportunity to re ..read more

As a landlord in New Jersey, dealing with the death of a tenant can be both emotionally challenging and legally complex. It’s crucial to handle the situation with sensitivity while ensuring compliance with New Jersey laws. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating this difficult process in the Garden State, tailored specifically for landlords. Immediate Actions Upon Learning of a Tenant’s Death Confirm the Death: Obtain official confirmation of the tenant’s death, such as a death certificate or notification from a reliable source, like a family member or law enforcement. Secure the Property ..read more

Protocols, particularly in tenant screening and property management, are pivotal for landlords striving to adhere to the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD). By establishing transparent, consistent, and impartial criteria for all tenant interactions and decisions, landlords can sidestep inadvertent discriminatory practices. Here’s a breakdown of how protocols can safeguard landlords against NJLAD violations: Standardized Application Processes: Utilizing a uniform application form and process for all prospective tenants helps landlords gather consistent information from every applic ..read more

For those who choose to rent their homes, there are many laws and regulations in place to ensure you are protected and that landlords can’t take advantage of you. Each state has its own rules and regulations including New Jersey. New Jersey landlords are required to follow and abide by these laws. If they don’t, there can be there can be legal consequences. If you’re wondering if your New Jersey landlord can raise the rent, keep reading.   30 Days Notice In the state of New Jersey, landlords are required by law to provide 30 days’ notice before raising the price of rent, according to the ..read more

For many landlords, their properties are their livelihood. That’s why it can be stressful when tenants don’t pay their rent. Some may simply forget or have problems with mail systems or online payment methods. However, if a tenant has avoided or refused to pay rent for an extended period, you may be wondering what your rights are as a landlord. Luckily, a landlord tenant attorney can help. Here are a few steps you can take.   Review the Lease According to DoorLoop, when a tenancy surpasses 12 months in New Jersey, the local landlord-tenant law requires the landlord to draft a written lea ..read more