New Jersey Lease Disclosure Requirements for Renters

When you sign a residential lease in New Jersey, your landlord is legally required to provide certain disclosures to help you make informed decisions and protect your rights as a renter. Understanding these required disclosures, and where to find official forms, ensures transparency and fosters trust between landlords and tenants. This guide explains what must be disclosed, why it matters, and how to access help if you need it.

Key Required Disclosures in New Jersey Residential Leases

New Jersey law requires landlords to include or provide several important disclosures in your lease or at the time of renting. These ensure renters are fully informed about conditions affecting their new home.

1. Truth in Renting Act Statement

• What it is: Landlords must give tenants in buildings with more than two units a copy of the Truth in Renting Act Statement summarizing tenant and landlord rights in plain language.
• When used: At the beginning of the tenancy (or within 30 days), and for each renewal.
• Practical example: If you move into a 5-unit apartment complex, your landlord must provide this document within 30 days of your lease commencing.

2. Landlord Identity and Address Disclosure (Landlord Registration Statement)

• What it is: Written statement with the landlord's name, address, and who manages the property, required by the Landlord Registration Law. Official form: Landlord Identity Certification.
• When used: Upon signing the lease or moving in.
• Practical example: If you are renting an apartment, your landlord should give you a document listing their contact details and the building's registered managing agent.

3. Flood Zone Disclosure

• What it is: As of 2023, landlords must disclose in writing if a rental is located in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Special Flood Hazard Area or Moderate Risk Flood Hazard Area. See NJ Flood Risk Disclosure Law.
• When used: Before signing the lease.
• Practical example: If your new unit is in a flood-prone zone, the landlord must inform you in the lease documents before you commit.

4. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for units built before 1978)

• What it is: Federal law requires landlords renting properties built before 1978 to provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form and an educational pamphlet.
• When used: Before lease signing. Landlords must also disclose any known lead hazard.
• Practical example: Renting a 1950s apartment? Your landlord must give you this form and booklet before you move in.

5. Statement of Rental Receipts

• What it is: Upon request, New Jersey tenants have the right to receive a written receipt for each rent payment (per N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-28), especially if paid in cash.
• When used: Any time a payment is made.
• Practical example: Pay your rent in cash? Ask for a receipt at each payment for your records.

6. Security Deposit Statement

• What it is: Written statement including where the deposit is held, the bank's address, and account type, provided within 30 days of receiving the deposit as required by New Jersey Security Deposit Law.
• When used: Within 30 days of receiving your security deposit.
• Practical example: After paying your deposit, you'll get this statement showing which bank holds your deposit and how it is protected.

Proper disclosure helps renters understand their rights and can make resolving landlord-tenant issues much smoother. If a required disclosure is missing, tenants have the right to ask for it and may gain certain legal protections in court disputes.

Official Tribunal for Rental Disputes in New Jersey

The primary body handling residential tenancy disputes in New Jersey is the local Superior Court, Special Civil Part, Landlord-Tenant Section. This tribunal resolves issues like lease violations, non-payment, and eviction.

Relevant Residential Tenancy Legislation in New Jersey

• New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J. Stat. Ann. Title 46:8) - Landlord and Tenant
• Truth in Renting Act
• Security Deposit Law
• Landlord Registration Law
• Federal Lead Disclosure Rule

FAQ: New Jersey Lease Disclosure Requirements

1. What if my landlord did not provide the Truth in Renting Statement?
   If your building has three or more units and your landlord did not give you this document, you can request it in writing. If issues arise, courts may consider this lack of disclosure when resolving disputes.
2. Do all renters get a flood zone disclosure?
   Yes, as of 2023, every renter whose home is in a FEMA-designated flood zone must receive this information before signing the lease.
3. When should I receive receipts for my rent payments?
   Receipts should be provided promptly after each cash or money order payment, or whenever you request one for another payment method.
4. Is lead-based paint information required for all rentals?
   No. The disclosure is only required for residential units built before 1978.
5. Where can I take a landlord-tenant dispute in New Jersey?
   You may file with the Special Civil Part, Landlord-Tenant Section of the Superior Court.

Key Takeaways for New Jersey Renters

• Review your lease for all required state and federal disclosures before signing.
• Request any missing disclosures or forms in writing and keep records.
• Know where to go—local courts and official agencies can help resolve disputes.

Understanding these requirements can help prevent misunderstandings and protect your rights during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NJ Superior Court, Landlord-Tenant Section – File complaints, learn procedures
• NJ Department of Community Affairs, Landlord-Tenant Information Service – Guidance and legal fact sheets
• Truth in Renting Guide – Comprehensive rights and responsibilities
• Landlord Identity Certification Form – For proving landlord disclosure compliance
• For further assistance, call the NJ Landlord-Tenant Information Hotline: 1-609-292-4174

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1. Truth in Renting Act, NJ Department of Community Affairs
2. Landlord Registration Law, N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-27 – 46:8-37
3. NJ Flood Risk Disclosure Law, Public Law 2023, c.93
4. Security Deposit Law, N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-19 – 26
5. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule, U.S. EPA
6. NJ Superior Court – Landlord-Tenant

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