Just cause eviction rules in Union County, NJ — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
New Jersey's Anti-Eviction Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1) provides statewide just-cause eviction protection — one of the strongest in the US. Landlords in Elizabeth and all Union County towns must prove a statutory cause.
The New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act (N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1 et seq.) applies to nearly all residential rentals in Union County except owner-occupied 2–3 unit buildings and short-term seasonal rentals. Landlords must prove one of 18 enumerated causes: non-payment, disorderly conduct, damage, lease violations, habitual late payment, substantial renovation, owner personal use (buildings with 3 or fewer units), permanent retirement from rental use, conviction, etc. Notice requirements range from 3 days (non-payment) to 18 months (condo conversion). Elizabeth tenants in covered buildings have additional protections; owner move-in and substantial renovation evictions may require relocation assistance under N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.10–61.12 (up to 6 months rent). Retaliatory eviction is prohibited under N.J.S.A. 2A:42-10.10.
Wrongful eviction: tenant may recover possession, treble damages, and attorney fees (N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.6). Failure to pay relocation: fines plus tenant civil action. Retaliatory eviction: damages plus attorney fees.
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See how Union County's just cause eviction rules stack up against other locations.
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