New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Law (2026)
Notice periods, deposit caps, entry rules, and required disclosures for residential rentals in New Jersey. Every rule links to the official state statute.
Reference only, not legal advice. State laws change. Confirm with the official New Jersey statute or a licensed attorney before you serve notice or file a case.
Quick summary
Notice periods
- Nonpayment of rent
- No notice required
- Cure lease violation
- 30 days
- Notice to quit (month-to-month)
- 30 days
Security deposit
- Statutory cap
- 1.5 months of rent
- Return deadline after move-out
- 30 days
Landlord entry notice
Reasonable notice (not defined by statute)
Required disclosures
- Lead paint (pre-1978)
- Truth in Renting
- Flood zone
- Window guards
- Rent increase
Market rules
- Rent control
- Local only
- Small claims limit
- $5,000
Official state statute
Always confirm current law with the source before serving notice.
https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/committees/assembly/ago/statutes.aspNew Jersey landlord FAQ
How many days notice do I give a tenant for unpaid rent in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not require a pre-filing notice period for nonpayment of rent. You can proceed directly under the state eviction process. Always confirm with the statute or an attorney.
What is the maximum security deposit in New Jersey?
New Jersey caps security deposits at 1.5 months of rent. Charging more than this is a violation of state law.
How many days do I have to return a security deposit in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires landlords to return the security deposit within 30 days after the tenant vacates. An itemized list of any deductions must accompany the refund.
How much notice must I give before entering a rental unit in New Jersey?
New Jersey does not define a specific advance notice period. The statute requires "reasonable notice" — most courts read this as 24 hours, but it is safer to give more.
Does New Jersey have rent control?
New Jersey allows local rent control. Check your city or county for specific caps.
Is New Jersey landlord-friendly or tenant-friendly?
New Jersey is classified Tenant-Friendly. This is based on notice periods, deposit caps, eviction timelines, and tenant protection rules relative to other states. Use it as a general read, not a ranking.
What disclosures am I required to give tenants in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires: Lead paint (pre-1978), Truth in Renting, Flood zone, Window guards, Rent increase. Some states add local disclosures by city. Always check the state statute for the current list.
What is the small claims court limit in New Jersey?
New Jersey small claims court hears cases up to $5,000. Most landlord-tenant disputes over deposits, damages, or unpaid rent fit within this limit.
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