Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New Jersey

is there a buyers remorse for apartments in nj? i signed a lease on nov 25 and the lease starts on the 1st. i went to move-in to the apt on the night of the 25th 20 minutes after i signed the lease. and the place is a mess. roaches on the wall, coming out the refrigerator. OMG. It was not like that when i viewed the apt. wat do i do?


Asked on 11/26/11, 9:20 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Daniel B. Kelley Kelley Law Offices, L.L.C.

Sorry to hear about your situation, but don't panic; you may have several options. Buyer's remorse, or just changing your mind, is not a valid reason to break the lease. The problems you describe, however, could arguably be more than just buyer's remorse, but real and valid concerns.

Here are some options that can be done on your own or with the help of an attorney: 1, contact the l/l (in writing) and try to get the issues resolved. (If it doesn't work, you have at least documented your efforts to be reasonable and that the l/l was on notice of the issues). 2, advise the l/l that you are breaking the lease because of the condition and its not what you agreed to. (1 issue might be how could it have changed that much since you saw it, but I dont know the circumstances or when that was). 3. get the problems fixed yourself if the landlord will not help and abate the rent, 4. file a Court action to declare the lease invalid and release you from it, 5. discuss it with the l/l and try to negotiate an immediate release. (This list is not necessarily all-inclusive and an experienced attorney can likely help formulate some additional strategies that may come to light upon a more complete review of the situation, copy of your lease, etc.)

There may also be some additional legal issues that an experienced attorney can use to your advantage depending on if the landlord has followed all of the many NJ rules and regulations for leases/renting.

Best of Luck,

Daniel B. Kelley, Esq.

www.kelleylawoffices.com

(856)414-1080

(888)NJ-LAWS1

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Answered on 11/26/11, 11:10 pm


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