Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New Jersey
Displaced tenant/withholding security
My family had to move from our apartment because it was only COed for 2 adults.We were unaware of that when we moved in. We were there for over a year. I found a new apt and started to move out on 7/22/06. My rent was paid until the 31st. The landlord came to check on the place while I was cleaning it up. He said all looked well and he would send out my security that Monday. I gave myself a week to get the apartment cleaned up for them. When I came back later that weekend the locks were changed. I called the landlord and he told me he was keeping most of my security deposit because I hadn't finished cleaning. I told him I still had 5 days to do so. He said too bad the locks were changed and he had already cleaned it. He also told me that I would not be given my relocation money that the state said I was supposed to get. I was owed $1450.00 in security and $6300.00 in displaced tenant fund. He sent me $634.00. He said I was responsible for furniture that was ruined when the ceiling collapsed in Dec 05 and his time and energy. I have 3 children and I depend on every dime I have. What can I do?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Displaced tenant/withholding security
The issue of relocation money from the State should be raised with the State immediately. If the landlord is withholding something from the State that was supposed to go to you or to your credit, there may be a criminal violation. In any case, the State may be of help to you in collecting what is due.
As to the other funds, you can sue in civil court. There is also a good possibility that there may be a criminal violation if the landlord has kept property that is yours.
Your question implies that you may be on some form of assistance. If you qualify, you may be able to get legal assistance through Legal Aid or county Legal Services. Look in your telephone book for the numbers.
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