Paterson, NJ Rental Inspections: Inspection Programs (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Every re-rental of a housing space
- Inspection window
- Within 3 business days of request
- Initial fee
- $50 first unit, $20 each more
- Expedited option
- 1 business day, sworn application
Summary
Every Paterson landlord must obtain a certificate of re-rental approval from the Division of Community Improvements after a physical inspection, before any new tenant may take possession of a unit.
A certificate of re-rental approval shall be obtained from the Division of Community Improvements, Department of Community Development, by the landlord of every dwelling which is subject to the provisions of this article immediately prior to allowing a new tenant to take possession of a housing space.
B. The inspection mentioned in the following section must be conducted while the housing space is vacant. In no case shall an inspection be considered as immediately prior to a new tenant's possession if it is conducted more than 30 days prior to such new tenant's possession.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4713536; v19 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 175 requires a certificate of re-rental approval for every dwelling unit immediately before a new tenant takes possession, based on an inspection confirming compliance with the housing-property maintenance code. The inspection must occur while the unit is vacant, no more than 30 days before move-in, and the Division must inspect within three business days of a request, or the landlord automatically receives a temporary certificate. An expedited one-business-day inspection is available on a sworn showing of need. Fees run $50 for the first housing space and $20 for each additional space, with reinspection fees of $25 and $15.
Violations & Fines
Violating the certificate requirement is punishable by a fine up to $1,000, imprisonment up to 90 days, or community service up to 90 days; each day of continued violation is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Paterson require an inspection every time a rental unit changes tenants?
What if the city doesn't inspect in time?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
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