FAQS

The state of New Jersey has several publications and forms written in both English and Spanish for landlords and tenants that will help ensure your landlord-tenant relationship is both legal and mutually fulfilling.

However, there are also a number of commonly asked questions that tenants and landlords alike both have that are best answered by a qualified real estate lawyer. Here are some brief answers to a few of those questions regarding real estate in New Jersey.

CAN A LANDLORD EVICT A TENANT WITHIN THIRTY DAYS IN NEW JERSEY?

There are several reasons for eviction and several rules that create a timeframe that is a bit longer than thirty days.

However, if the tenant has not paid rent and does not live in federally subsidized housing, a motel, a hotel, or seasonal housing, these may not apply.

It can also depend on how many units are on the property and if the owner lives in one of them.

If you are either a landlord in need of evicting a tenant or have yourself been evicted, contact one of our experienced real estate lawyers to discuss the specifics of your case.

IS A LANDLORD REQUIRED TO INFORM THE TENANT OF HIS OR HER RIGHTS?

#Yes. The state of New Jersey relies on the Truth in Renting Act. This act requires landlords to provide each tenant with a Truth in Renting document that outlines all of the tenant rights in New Jersey. This document must be provided within thirty days of signing the lease.

If the landlord does not provide the document, the tenant may pursue the matter and the landlord may have to pay a fine and then still need to provide the document. Conversely, tenants may sign a waiver to indicate that they have been offered the document and declined it.

CAN LANDLORDS LOCK TENANTS OUT?

No. The state of New Jersey does not allow for tenant lock-outs. Instead, if the tenant is past the date for eviction, the landlord must contact the police and ask them to enforce the eviction. If you have been locked out of a rental property, you may need a lawyer to help you assert your rights as a tenant.

CAN LANDLORDS EVICT TENANTS WHO BREAK LAWS WHILE ON THE RENTAL PROPERTY?

Yes. If you, as a landlord, suspect that a tenant is breaking the law, it is best to contact law enforcement immediately. You may then need to provide a Notice to Cease, which may be followed by a Notice to Quit and finally an eviction. Our lawyers can help guide you through the process and make sure it is carried out correctly and lawfully.

WHAT FORMS DO I NEED IN ORDER TO SELL MY PROPERTY?

Buying and selling property is complicated and can end up costing you quite a bit if not carried out correctly. Contact our office for help with forms and other questions regarding selling your property.

EXPERIENCED REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS CAN HELP

While this list of frequently asked questions may be helpful, it's really best to contact a New Jersey landlord-tenant lawyer to learn about specific details. Further, many of these answers may vary according to the details of your specific situation.

If you have additional questions concerning real estate, our lawyers at Jean Baptiste & Associates can help. Call us or contact us online to schedule a consultation.