Demanding Repairs Before Move-In in New Jersey

Moving into a new rental in New Jersey is an exciting step, but it’s important to make sure the unit is safe, healthy, and up to code before your lease begins. As a renter, you have the right to demand that your landlord addresses serious repairs and necessary maintenance before you move in, according to New Jersey law. Taking the right steps now can help avoid disputes or costly issues later on.

Understanding Your Rights Before Move-In

New Jersey renters are protected by the New Jersey State Tenant Rights and the New Jersey Truth-in-Renting Act. Landlords are legally required to provide a rental unit that meets all health, safety, and building codes at the start of your lease. This includes working plumbing, heating, structural safety, and compliance with state and local housing codes.^[1]

Common Pre-Move-In Repairs

• Leaking pipes or water damage
• Mold or signs of infestation
• Broken locks, windows, or doors
• Faulty electrical outlets or fixtures
• Inoperable heating or cooling systems

If you spot any of these issues at your move-in inspection, you can formally request that the landlord make repairs before you sign the lease or move in.

How to Request Repairs Before Move-In

The most effective way to protect yourself is to document any problems and communicate your repair requests in writing. Official documentation may be important if disputes arise.

1. Perform a Thorough Inspection

• Walk through the rental unit before signing your lease.
• Take clear photos or videos of any issues.
• Note all defects, no matter how minor, on a move-in inspection checklist. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs provides a helpful Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (no official form number).

Use this checklist to clearly show what needs to be fixed before you agree to move in.

2. Submit a Written Request for Repairs

• Write a dated “Request for Repairs Before Move-In” letter to your landlord.
• Clearly describe each repair needed, referencing your inspection and photos if possible.
• Ask for a timeline on when repairs will be completed.
• Keep a signed copy for your records.

There is no state-mandated repair-request form, but written communication is critical. Template letters are available in the NJ Tenant Rights Handbook. If the landlord agrees, ask for confirmation in writing.

3. What If Repairs Are Not Made?

If your landlord does not respond or complete repairs before your move-in date, you have several options:

• Refuse to move in or sign the lease until repairs are completed.
• Contact your local housing code enforcement office to file a complaint.
• Seek advice from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Housing Code Enforcement.

Official Forms and Where to Submit

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (unofficial, NJ DCA)
• Download the checklist
• When to use: During your pre-move-in inspection, note all damages or repairs needed.
• Example: If you find broken locks or a leaky faucet while inspecting, list them on this checklist and provide a copy to your landlord.
• Written Repair Request Letter (template provided in NJ resources)
• See sample letters in Tenant Rights Handbook, Appendix
• When to use: If any repairs are needed before you move in, submit this letter to your landlord.
• How to submit: Deliver via certified mail or email for a record of communication.

If a landlord is unresponsive or refuses to address habitability issues, contact your local code enforcement office or file a complaint with the NJ Department of Community Affairs. In cases of serious disputes, you may seek assistance through the New Jersey Superior Court, Special Civil Part, Landlord/Tenant Section, which handles residential tenancy cases.

Legal Protections for New Jersey Renters

Your rights are established by the New Jersey Statutes Annotated Title 46:8-19 (Landlord and Tenant Law) and the Truth-in-Renting Act.^[2]

• Landlords must deliver rental units in safe, livable condition
• Tenants may terminate or delay move-in if the home is not habitable or repairs are not made as required
• Written inspection documentation can support future repair requests or disputes

For more details, review the Truth-in-Renting Act summary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to move in if repairs are not done on time?
   No, if the unit does not meet basic health and safety standards, you may delay move-in or even terminate the lease if repairs are not made. Keep all communication in writing.
2. Is there a state form for requesting repairs?
   New Jersey uses written letters or emails to request repairs, but there is no official state-mandated form. Use the checklist and sample letters from the NJ Tenant Rights Handbook.
3. Who handles repair disputes that can’t be resolved?
   Disputes can be taken to your local housing code office or the New Jersey Superior Court, Special Civil Part, Landlord/Tenant Section.
4. Can I make repairs myself and deduct the cost?
   Only under limited circumstances and after proper notice to your landlord. Seek legal advice before taking this step, as it is not always permitted.
5. What if I already moved in and repairs are still needed?
   Follow the same reporting process as before move-in and document all requests. You retain your right to a habitable rental at all times.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Jersey Renters

• Inspect your new rental and list any issues using the official checklist.
• Request repairs in writing before signing your lease or moving in.
• Contact code enforcement or the Special Civil Part if repairs are not addressed.

Being proactive protects your safety and your rights as a New Jersey tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Housing Code Enforcement: (609) 984-0040
• New Jersey Superior Court, Special Civil Part, Landlord/Tenant Section
• NJ Truth-in-Renting Act & Tenant Rights Handbook
• File a housing complaint online
• Local township or municipal housing offices

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1. New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Tenant Rights Handbook: Tenant Rights Handbook (PDF)
2. New Jersey Statutes Annotated Title 46:8-19; New Jersey Landlord and Tenant Law (Official Statutes)

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