Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

How do I escape a landlord that enters my apartment without notice?

My landlord lives downstairs in the duplex we rent. He's always stopping up to drop something off that he could easily slip under the door. He even came up at 5:45 am! One day, he entered the apartment using his key totally unanounced and unwelcome. He did not have permission to enter and at least should have knocked. We looked up to find him in the apartment. I need to get out of this place because I feel unsafe. I'm scared he'll barge in at any minute or even in the middle of the night. I'm scared he'll attack me or something. Please advise. I'd like to file a police report for unlawful entry or breaking an entering. Am I on sound legal ground?


Asked on 10/13/00, 9:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Gleaner Robert A. Gleaner, P.C.

Re: How do I escape a landlord that enters my apartment without notice?

This guy has clearly breached the lease by doing what he has done. You need to draft a very detailed letter on what he has done, telling him that he has breached the lease by his actions. At the same time, an incident report should be filed with the local police to document this. You should then remove all of your personal belongings from the apartment and vacate same prior to giving him the letter and then leave as you are giving him the letter, with witnesses and protection around you. I know all of this seems drastic. However, you have described what appears to me to be a very serious situation. Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. Since you have not retained an attorney in this case, before you take any action, you should contact an attorney (either me or someone else) to discuss your matter in more detail. Only then will you be able to rely on the advice. I will be happy to assist you. However, you need to call me at 856-546-8010. If you mention LawGuru, there will be no charge for your first consultation. Good luck! Rob Gleaner .

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Answered on 11/13/00, 12:10 pm


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