N.J. DCA Landlord/Tenant Information Series — Lease Information Bulletin

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs
Division of Codes and Standards
Landlord-Tenant Information Service

LEASE INFORMATION BULLETIN
May 2010

This bulletin provides basic information based on New Jersey statutory laws and case law
regarding establishing and breaking leases for residential rental properties in New Jersey. This
bulletin is for informational purposes only and should not be used for legal interpretations or
legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal services and advice when necessary.

The Lease
A lease is an agreement between a lessor (landlord) and a lessee (tenant) which may be verbal or
written. A lease grants possession to the tenant for use of a dwelling unit for a specified period
of time in return for rent. A lease is considered a contract and must be written in plain language.
This means that the lease must be written so that the average person can understand it. Parties to
a lease must be at least 18 years of age and mentally competent. A written lease does not take
effect until it is signed by the lessor.1