New Jersey Just Cause Eviction Law (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: NJSA 2A:18-61.1
Coverage: Most residential rentals
Exemption: Owner-occupied 2-3 units
Self-help damages: Treble

Full Breakdown

Under NJSA 2A:18-61.1, residential tenants in covered buildings (most rentals except owner-occupied 2-unit and 3-unit dwellings) cannot be evicted except for specific causes: nonpayment of rent, disorderly conduct, willful damage, lease violations, refusal to accept reasonable lease changes, conversion, owner occupancy, or substantial breach. Landlords cannot refuse to renew leases without cause. The Act is one of the strongest tenant protection statutes in the country and applies uniformly across all NJ municipalities. Notice requirements under NJSA 2A:18-61.2 vary by ground.

Violations & Penalties

Filing an eviction without statutory cause results in dismissal and potential damages. Wrongful eviction may give rise to civil claims and treble damages for self-help eviction under NJSA 2A:39-8.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my New Jersey landlord refuse to renew my lease without cause?

Generally no. The Anti-Eviction Act requires good cause for non-renewal of most residential tenancies, regardless of whether the lease term has expired.

Does the Anti-Eviction Act apply to all NJ rentals?

Most rentals are covered, but owner-occupied buildings with two or three units, hotels, and certain transitional housing are exempt under NJSA 2A:18-61.1.

New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act Statewide Just Cause Protections

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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