New Jersey Bedbug Disclosure Requirements for Renters

Moving into a new apartment in New Jersey should be a fresh start, but bedbug infestations can create serious stress for renters. New Jersey has specific bedbug disclosure requirements to protect tenants. This article outlines what landlords must disclose, what renters should know before signing a lease, and which actions to take if you suspect a bedbug issue.

Understanding Bedbug Disclosure Laws in New Jersey

Bedbugs are small, resilient pests that can cause health and financial headaches for renters. New Jersey has established rules that require landlords to address and disclose bedbug infestations in rental units.

What Landlords Must Disclose

• Mandatory Disclosure: Landlords in New Jersey must notify current and prospective tenants about any known bedbug infestations in an apartment or building.
• Upon Request: Prospective renters have the right to request recent information about bedbug infestations before signing a lease.
• Duty to Treat: If an infestation is confirmed, landlords are required under the New Jersey State Sanitary Code to take action to exterminate bedbugs and prevent their spread.¹

Relevant Forms for Renters and Landlords

• New Jersey Model Lease Addendum: Bedbug Disclosure Form
  (No official form number; commonly provided by landlords or local health departments)
  This addendum is typically attached to the lease to document whether or not a unit has had a known bedbug infestation over the past year.
  Example: Before signing a lease, your landlord provides you a bedbug disclosure addendum stating the unit's recent history. If you do not receive this, you may request written confirmation from your landlord.
  See a sample on the NJ Department of Health.

Inspection and Extermination Responsibilities

• Landlords must inspect and, if necessary, exterminate bedbugs at their own expense according to the New Jersey Sanitary Code.
• Tenants are required to notify landlords promptly if they suspect a bedbug infestation.
• Landlords must provide instructions to tenants to help with effective treatment.

What to Do if You Suspect Bedbugs

• Document any evidence of bedbugs (such as pictures or videos).
• Notify your landlord or property manager in writing as soon as possible.
• Cooperate with inspection and extermination procedures, which may include preparing your unit or temporarily vacating during treatment.

Who Enforces These Rules?

Tenant and landlord disputes about bedbug disclosures or treatment are typically handled by the New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Court. Health and safety violations can also involve the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).²

Bedbug Disclosure and Tenancy Legislation in NJ

• The primary law regulating habitability—including bedbug disclosures—is the New Jersey State Sanitary Code (N.J.A.C. 8:24-1.1 et seq.).
• Further protections are detailed in N.J.A.C. 5:10 – Maintenance of Hotels and Multiple Dwellings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I discover bedbugs after moving into my New Jersey apartment?
   Notify your landlord immediately in writing and document the situation. The landlord is responsible for arranging and paying for extermination.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord ignores a bedbug problem?
   You may have the right to withhold rent or seek a rent reduction, but only after following New Jersey legal procedures. It is important to seek official guidance before taking any action.
3. Does my landlord have to tell me if there were bedbugs before I moved in?
   Yes. New Jersey law requires landlords to disclose any known, recent bedbug infestations to new and prospective tenants, often through a written addendum.
4. Are there official bedbug complaint forms in NJ?
   While there is no state-wide official form, complaints can be submitted to local health departments or the Bureau of Housing Inspection using their contact forms or hotlines. Always keep a copy of your written complaint.
5. Who oversees landlord-tenant disputes involving bedbugs?
   The New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Court is the main tribunal for these disputes, while the Department of Community Affairs oversees code enforcement and major health issues.

Key Takeaways for New Jersey Renters

• Landlords must disclose known bedbug problems and pay for proper treatment.
• Renters should promptly notify landlords in writing if bedbugs are found.
• Contact local health officials or the DCA if your landlord fails to address the issue.

Knowing your rights and acting quickly ensures a safer and healthier living space.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Bureau of Housing Inspection – Health code enforcement and complaint filing
• New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Court – Tribunal for residential tenancy matters
• NJ Department of Health: Bedbug Information for the Public – Official tips, FAQs, and prevention help
• NJ Division of Housing: Landlord-Tenant Information

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1. N.J.A.C. 5:10-5.1 to 8.2, part of the New Jersey Administrative Code on Maintenance of Multiple Dwellings
2. New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Court official tribunal information

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