Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey
Rent withholding
How can a tenant withhold rent for non-repair and put rent in escrow?The city is taking the landlord to court for non-repairing out apartment.It's been ongoing many months.Can we legally put our rent in an escrow account until the matter is resolved?The landlord keeps postponing the court dates.Thank you.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Rent withholding
SINCE A COURT CASE IS PENDING IN WHICH YOU ARE A LITIGANT, YOU should DEPOSIT WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT THE MONTHLY BASE RENT AS IT BECOMES DUE. You should withhold your rent from the landlord (by depositing it) until the matter is resolved. You should also demand from the Landlord a copy of the New Jersey Truth in Renting handbook (published by the Dept. of Community Affairs)If they fail to provide they may be guilty of further violations. Visit our web site at www.lep-lawyers.com