New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3328

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Establishes certain notice and compensation requirements for residential tenant displaced for purpose of renovation.

Impact

The implications of A3328 on state laws include strengthening tenant protections against wrongful evictions masked as renovation motives. The bill is set to amend existing laws under the Anti-Eviction Act, which previously allowed some leeway for landlords in such situations. By enforcing compensation requirements, it emphasizes the need for accountability amongst landlords and attempts to alleviate the financial burden placed on tenants who are forced to vacate their homes under these circumstances.

Summary

Bill A3328 establishes specific notice and compensation requirements for residential tenants who are displaced due to renovation purposes. Under the bill, landlords are obligated to compensate affected tenants for both the reasonable rental cost of moving trucks or vans, and for 12 months' worth of rent. This compensation is applicable when tenants are formally notified of displacement due to renovation activities or personal occupancy by an owner or buyer. The intent is to safeguard tenants from being unfairly evicted under the pretense of renovations, ensuring they receive fair compensation during such transitions.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding A3328 revolves around the balance it seeks to achieve between landlord rights and tenant protections. Proponents argue that the bill offers crucial safeguards for tenants, ensuring that they are not exploited during property renovations. On the other hand, critics may highlight potential burdens it places on landlords, suggesting it could deter necessary renovations or increase operational costs. The necessity for written notices and the specific timelines for compensation aims to clarify and streamline processes in these situations, yet its effectiveness will likely depend on its enforcement and landlord compliance.

Companion Bills

NJ A5114

Carry Over Establishes certain notice and compensation requirements for residential tenant displaced for purpose of renovation.

Similar Bills

NJ A5114

Establishes certain notice and compensation requirements for residential tenant displaced for purpose of renovation.

CO SB094

Safe Housing for Residential Tenants

CO SB131

Reducing the Cost of Housing

CA SB611

Residential rental properties: fees and security.

NJ A5026

Codifies and enhances use of breach of implied warranty of habitability as defense to certain eviction actions.

NJ S1666

Codifies and enhances use of breach of implied warranty of habitability as defense to certain eviction actions.

NJ S280

Codifies and enhances use of breach of implied warranty of habitability as defense to certain eviction actions.

NJ S4347

The "Safeguarding Livable Units through Municipal Landlord Oversight and Regulation by DCA" or "SLUMLORD Act"; strengthens habitability protections for residential tenants; appropriates $5 million.