Eviction Protections for Mobile Home Owners in New Jersey

Mobile home owners in New Jersey have unique legal protections if their home is located in a mobile home park, even if they rent the land their home is on. Understanding your rights under state law can ensure you remain secure in your home and know what steps to take if facing threatened eviction.

Who Is Protected Under New Jersey Law?

In New Jersey, residents who own their mobile or manufactured home but rent a lot or space in a mobile home park have specific rights when it comes to eviction. The New Jersey Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act protects these residents by limiting the grounds for eviction and setting clear rules for notice periods and procedures.¹

When Can a Mobile Home Owner Be Evicted?

Eviction from a mobile home park in New Jersey can only occur for certain, legally defined reasons. Park owners cannot remove residents simply for asking for repairs or for no cause at all. Permitted grounds for eviction under the Act include:

• Nonpayment of rent
• Violation of park rules (after written notice and opportunity to correct the violation)
• Substantial damage to the property caused by the resident or their guests
• Refusal to sign a new lease agreement with similar terms
• Other just causes, as specified in the legislation

Each ground has specific requirements for notice and the opportunity to fix certain problems before the eviction can proceed.

Notice Requirements for Eviction

New Jersey law requires that mobile home park owners provide written notice before beginning any eviction action. The amount of notice depends on the reason:

• Nonpayment of rent: 14 days written notice is required.
• Other causes: At least 30 days written notice, and sometimes longer depending on the issue.

All eviction notices must specify the grounds for eviction and include clear details about what the resident can do to correct the problem (if possible). For more information, visit the New Jersey Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help page.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint for Removal (LT-1): Used by park owners to start the eviction process in court. If you receive this form, it means formal eviction proceedings have begun. You should respond or appear in court on the specified date. View Complaint for Removal (LT-1).
• Answer (Form CN 10550): If you want to contest the eviction or explain your side, you can file this form with the court before your hearing. Example: If you believe the eviction notice did not give enough time, use this to tell the judge. Download the Answer Form.

If you think your eviction is not lawful, you also have the right to present your side at the scheduled court hearing or seek mediation.

Where Are Mobile Home Eviction Cases Handled?

Eviction disputes for mobile home owners are handled by the New Jersey Superior Court, Special Civil Part - Landlord/Tenant Section. Here, both landlords and tenants (including mobile home owners renting land) have the opportunity to present evidence and arguments.

Relevant State Legislation

• New Jersey Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1 to 2A:18-61.12)
• New Jersey Statutes Title 2A: Administration of Civil and Criminal Justice

These laws give you the right to challenge improper evictions and outline notice, process, and appeal rights.

Steps to Respond to an Eviction Notice

If you own your mobile home and rent land in New Jersey and get an eviction notice, here’s what you should do:

• Read the notice thoroughly and check the reason and dates provided.
• Gather documents like your lease, rent payment records, and correspondence.
• If you disagree with the eviction, promptly file an Answer (Form CN 10550).
• Attend all scheduled court hearings—missing a hearing can result in automatic eviction.
• Seek free legal help from organizations listed below if needed.

Acting quickly protects your rights and improves your chances of a positive outcome.

FAQ

1. Can I be evicted from a mobile home park in New Jersey for no reason?
   No. New Jersey law protects mobile home owners from eviction without a legally recognized reason. Park owners must follow very specific procedures and provide written notice.
2. How much notice must I get before eviction from a mobile home park?
   For nonpayment of rent, at least 14 days written notice is required. For other causes, at least 30 days or more may be mandated under law.
3. What if I receive a court eviction complaint (LT-1)?
   You must respond by attending your court date, and you can file an Answer (Form CN 10550) to explain any defenses. Seek legal advice immediately.
4. Who can help me if I am being wrongfully evicted?
   Contact organizations such as Legal Services of New Jersey or your local County Office of Consumer Affairs for assistance and legal advice (links provided below).

Conclusion: What Mobile Home Owners Should Remember

• Eviction is only legal for just cause and proper notice must be given.
• Special forms and specific court procedures apply—know your rights and deadlines.
• Seek help right away if you receive an eviction notice or complaint—do not wait.

Staying informed and proactive is the key to protecting your home and rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NJ Department of Community Affairs - Mobile Home Parks: State regulatory agency for park rules, complaints, and information.
• Legal Services of New Jersey: Free or low-cost legal assistance to qualifying residents facing eviction.
• New Jersey Courts Landlord/Tenant Information: Official forms, guides, and general tenant information provided by the courts.
• County Offices of Consumer Affairs: Local consumer protection and tenant issue support.

---

1. New Jersey Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1 to 2A:18-61.12)
2. New Jersey Courts Landlord/Tenant Self-Help
3. Complaint for Removal (LT-1)
4. Answer Form (CN 10550)

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations