Landlord Responsibilities in Clifton, New Jersey
Landlord-tenant laws in New Jersey can be complicated. Avoid legal hazards by knowing and complying with New Jersey’s real estate laws!
Here are ten things you need to know about to stay out of legal trouble and properly manage your property in New Jersey.
Comply With Anti-Discrimination Laws
Before putting your place up for rent, it is important that you understand New Jersey’s fair housing laws. This includes
- What you can say and do when screening tenants
- How you advertise the property
- What questions you ask on the rental application
- How you deal with tenants
Landlords in New Jersey have the right to reject applicants. Here are some of the factors that will make rejecting applicants acceptable:
- Bad credit history
- Negative references from the previous landlord
- Bad behavior
Landlords are not free to discriminate against prospective tenants based on
- Race
- Religion
- National origin
- Familial status
- Sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity
- Physical disability
- Mental disability
- Source of income
Provide Habitable Housing
As a landlord, you are legally responsible for maintaining the rental premises. You should keep it livable and make the necessary repairs.
Prepare a Rental or Lease Agreement
You and your tenant should sign a rental agreement or lease to establish the basis of your relationship with the tenant. This is full of crucial details, such as how long the tenant can stay in the rental property and the amount of rent they must pay.
Rent and lease agreements that clearly communicate the responsibilities and rights of tenants can help you avoid any disputes.
Our reliable real estate attorneys can help you create a comprehensive lease or rental agreement. Just schedule an appointment with our law firm to see how we can help.
Make All Necessary Disclosures to Tenants
When accepting a new tenant, it is important that you disclose all important information about the rental property, such as whether the rental unit’s location is flood-free.
Landlords must also comply with required disclosures about lead-based paint on the rental unit.
Respect Privacy of Tenants
In New Jersey, landlords must provide a one-day notice before entering the rental unit to make repairs. To avoid legal problems, include a clause in the lease or rental agreement that lets the tenant know your right of entry. You may also keep a record of all your requests for entry to the rental unit.
Need Help With Your Rental Property? Call Our New Jersey Real Estate Attorneys!
If you have any legal questions about your property or rental unit in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to connect with one of our experienced Clifton Real Estate attorneys. We are experienced in handling different types of real estate issues and real estate disputes. Schedule a consultation with us today!
