Rent control rules in Union County, NJ — also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances — limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.
Elizabeth has one of NJ's strongest rent control ordinances (Code Ch. 3.24). Annual increases capped at CPI, typically 4–5%. Elizabeth Rent Leveling Board oversees. Plainfield and Roselle also enforce rent control.
Elizabeth Rent Control Ordinance (Code Ch. 3.24) caps annual rent increases at the regional CPI-U, generally not to exceed 5% in a 12-month period. The Elizabeth Rent Leveling Board (established 1972) registers rental units, hears landlord hardship applications, and adjudicates tenant complaints. Buildings with 4 or more units built before 1987 are covered; owner-occupied 1–3 unit buildings and new construction are exempt under N.J.S.A. 2A:42-84.1. Union Township, Roselle, Plainfield, and Hillside also enforce rent control ordinances of varying strictness. Landlords must provide 30–60 days written notice of any increase and registered rent roll filing. Hardship increases require Board approval after a public hearing.
Illegal increases: tenants file complaint with Rent Leveling Board — overcharges refunded with interest. Landlord fines $500 to $2,000 per violation. Willful violations: up to $10,000 and potential loss of Certificate of Occupancy.
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See how Union County's rent control rules stack up against other locations.
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