N.J. DCA Landlord/Tenant Information Series — Grounds for Eviction Bulletin

Any tenant evicted under g. 3) (illegal occupancy) is entitled to relocation assistance in an
amount equal to six times the tenant’s monthly rent. The landlord is responsible for paying the
tenant’s relocation expenses. Any tenant who does not receive the required payment from the
landlord at least five days prior to his or her removal from the premises, may receive payment
from a revolving relocation assistance fund established by the municipality. The landlord will be
required to repay the money to the municipality. (Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:18-61.1g.)

However, if the municipality has not established a relocation assistance fund, and the landlord
does not pay the relocation funds within the required time, interest will accrue on the unpaid
balance at the rate of 18% per year until the amount due, including interest is paid in full to the
tenant. The amount due to the tenant is a lien on the property. The tenant may file a lien
statement with the county clerk or registrar in order to enforce the lien. (Pursuant to N.J.S.A.
2A:18-61.1h.)
h. The Landlord Wants to Permanently Retire the Property from Residential Use
If the landlord wants to permanently retire a building or mobile home park from residential use,
provided the circumstances covered under section (g) above do not apply, the landlord may file suit
for eviction. A Notice to Quit must be served on the tenant at least 18 months prior to filing the
suit for eviction. No legal action may be taken until the lease expires.