Lead-safe certification
Most New Jersey rentals built before 1978 must be inspected for lead-based paint hazards every three years or at tenant turnover, whichever is earlier. A lead-safe certificate is valid for two years, and a valid certificate means you don't need a new inspection at turnover (NJ DCA). Towns run the program, and local guidance can include steep fines; Hamilton Township cites up to $1,000 per unit per week (Hamilton Township).
Read the full NJ lead-safe checklist and calendar
Landlord registration
Under New Jersey's Landlord Identity Law, an owner of a one- or two-family non-owner-occupied rental files a registration statement with the municipal clerk. Buildings with three or more units file with the state Bureau of Housing Inspection. Owner-occupied two-family homes don't need to register (NJ DCA, Truth in Renting).
- The statement lists the owners, any managing agent, an emergency contact with a phone number, and every recorded mortgage holder.
- Give each tenant a copy in writing, and post it where it can be easily seen.
- File an amended registration within 20 days of any change, and notify tenants within seven days of filing it.
- If a landlord who hasn't complied files for eviction, the court holds the case for up to 90 days. If the landlord still hasn't complied, the case is dismissed.
The same information, especially owners and mortgage holders, should match your insurance. If you bought in an LLC or refinanced, check both.
A New Jersey landlord calendar
| When | What to check |
|---|---|
| Tenant gives notice | Lead-safe certificate date. Book an inspection if it's expired or close. |
| Move-out day | Start the vacancy clock. Keep heat on in cold months. |
| Any ownership, agent or mortgage change | Amend the landlord registration within 20 days. Update the insurance too. |
| Every 2 years | Lead-safe certificate expires. |
| Every 3 years | Routine lead inspection is due, even with no turnover. |
| Every policy renewal | Confirm the named insured, liability limit and loss of rent limit. |
Questions NJ owners ask us
Do New Jersey landlords have to register?
Yes, in most cases. Owners of one- or two-family non-owner-occupied rentals file a registration statement with the municipal clerk. Buildings with three or more units file with the state Bureau of Housing Inspection. Owner-occupied two-family homes don't have to register.
What happens if I don't register?
In an eviction case, the court must hold off on a judgment for up to 90 days to let the landlord comply. If the landlord still hasn't complied, the case is dismissed.
Does my NJ rental need a lead inspection?
Most rentals built before 1978 do, unless an exemption applies. Inspections happen every three years or at tenant turnover, whichever is earlier, and a lead-safe certificate is valid for two years.
Is CanDo based in New Jersey?
Yes. Our office is in Cranbury, NJ, and we work with rental owners across New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut.
Educational, not legal advice. Local rules vary by municipality; confirm with your town's code office or clerk.
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