Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New Jersey
My old landlord sold the house he rented to us and never got a certificate of occupancy. Now the new landlord is telling me the township said I can't live here without the CO and that they may lock me out of the house. Is this true? what rights do I have? Do I continue to pay rest? Can I be evicted?
2 Answers from Attorneys
The landlord cannot lock you out. It is a violation of New Jersey law. Carry some proof with you that will show that you are a tenant. If the landlord locks you out, call the police.
If you have to move because the apartment is illegal, the landlord is required to pay you six months rent in advance in order to cover your moving expenses. That payment is without regard to what your expenses actually are and the landlord cannot subtract back rent or anything else from the payment (although he does not lose the right to collect back rent).
See also: http://info.corbettlaw.net/lawguru.htm
You should talk to a lawyer. If the apartment was illegal, then your landlord might owe money to you! Six months rent.
And NO, the landlord can not lock you out without going to court and getting a court judgment. You will be able to fight that and make your claim for the six month's rent payment to you.
Call me and I will discuss this with you. The call will be free.
Robert Davies, Attorney 201 820 3460
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