New Jersey Landlord Disclosures Before Move-In

Moving into a new rental in New Jersey comes with important rights and responsibilities — for both tenants and landlords. One of the most crucial steps is understanding what information your landlord is required by law to disclose before you receive the keys. Knowing these requirements helps renters make informed decisions and avoid avoidable disagreements down the road.

Key Landlord Disclosures Required Before Move-In

Before you move in, New Jersey law requires landlords to provide certain information to prospective and incoming tenants. These disclosures are designed to protect renters and ensure safe, fair housing.

1. Truth in Renting Statement

• What it is: An official booklet summarizing your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in New Jersey under the law.
• Who must provide: Landlords of residential buildings with more than two rental units (with some exceptions).
• When/how used: You must receive this statement at lease signing (or lease renewal). For example, if you’re signing a lease in a 10-unit apartment building, your landlord is legally required to hand you or email you the latest Truth in Renting Statement.

2. Window Guard Notice

• What it is: A notice letting tenants know they have the right to request window guards be installed if children 10 years or younger are in the unit.
• Form name and number: While not a standard state form, landlords must use language approved by the NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
• When/how used: Landlords must distribute the window guard notice at the beginning of each lease term. For example, if moving in with a young child, actively ask your landlord for this notice to request guards, if needed.

3. Landlord Identity Disclosure (Landlord Registration Statement)

• What it is: Landlords must disclose their name, address, and contact information (or their agent) so tenants always know whom to contact for repairs or emergencies.
• Form name and number: Landlord Registration Statement (no number).
• When/how used: For buildings with three or more units, this statement must be provided with your lease; for smaller properties, landlords must post their contact info on-site or give it to you directly.

4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

• What it is: For any housing built before 1978, landlords must tell you about any known lead-based paint or hazards on the property and provide an EPA-approved information pamphlet.
• Form name and number: Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards (EPA/HUD).
• When/how used: You’ll often sign this disclosure form along with your lease. For example, renting a 1950s apartment means you must get and sign this document.

5. Flood Zone Notification

• What it is: As of 2022, New Jersey law requires landlords to notify you if a rental is in a flood hazard area or has been damaged by flooding.¹
• Form name and number: No state-issued form, but required notification language can be found on the NJ DCA Flood Disclosure FAQ.
• When/how used: Landlords must give you this notice before lease signing, either as a separate letter, in the lease, or attached to it.

6. Certificate of Registration/ Inspection for Multi-Unit Buildings

• What it is: For buildings of three or more units, landlords must show proof the property is registered and inspected by the state for basic safety.
• Form name and number: Certificate of Registration; Bureau of Housing Inspection Certificate.
• When/how used: A copy of this certificate should be available to tenants or posted in a common area.

Additionally, renters with disabilities may request certain reasonable disclosures or accommodations.

Why These Disclosures Matter

Landlord disclosures empower tenants to:

• Understand property conditions and health/safety risks
• Identify proper contacts for maintenance issues and emergencies
• Exercise the right to request repairs, window guards, or other protections
• Prevent future disputes or miscommunications with landlords

What Can You Do If a Disclosure Is Missing?

If your landlord did not provide a required disclosure, you have the right to:

• Request the missing documents, referencing New Jersey law
• Contact the New Jersey Division of Codes and Standards' Bureau of Housing Inspection if you have concerns about unsafe conditions or non-compliance
• File a complaint using the Bureau’s online portal or call their consumer hotline

You have extra legal protection from threats of retaliation when exercising your disclosure rights under New Jersey's Landlord-Tenant Law.²

FAQ: New Jersey Required Landlord Disclosures

1. What if my landlord doesn't give me the Truth in Renting Statement?
   Landlords of qualified properties must provide it. You can remind them of this requirement and request a copy. If still refused, you can contact the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs for assistance.
2. Do I have to sign the lead-based paint disclosure if my rental is new?
   No, the federal lead disclosure is only mandatory for buildings constructed before 1978. For newer rentals, this is not required.
3. How do I get window guards installed if I have a young child?
   Notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy of your request. Landlords must comply promptly for eligible units and situations.
4. Are small landlords (1–2 units) required to disclose their contact details?
   Yes, even smaller landlords must either post their address/contact info in a common area or deliver it directly to you.
5. Where do I report if my landlord isn’t compliant with disclosure law?
   You may file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Codes and Standards' Bureau of Housing Inspection.

Key Takeaways for New Jersey Renters

• Landlords must provide specific disclosures — such as the Truth in Renting Statement, lead paint information, flood risk, and their contact details — before move-in.
• Keep copies of all forms and notices. They protect your rights as a tenant.
• If required disclosures are missing, you can and should request them, and reach out to state agencies for help.

Understanding these requirements helps you begin your tenancy with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Division of Codes and Standards' Bureau of Housing Inspection – Handles tenant-landlord law and complaint investigations
• NJ Department of Community Affairs Tenant Resources – Official forms, guides, and assistance
• Office of the Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Information
• Call the NJ Consumer Affairs Landlord-Tenant Information Service: 1-973-504-6200

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1. See new flood hazard disclosure law: NJ DCA Flood Information
2. Full legal reference: New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Act

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