Generally, New Jersey landlords cannot enter a rental unit without permission, though they have a legal right to access it for specific reasons if they follow notice protocols.
Under the New Jersey Administrative Code (N.J.A.C. 5:10-5.1), the rules for entry are as follows:
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Reasonable Notice: For inspections and maintenance, landlords must provide “reasonable notification.” In ordinary circumstances, this is defined as one day (24 hours).
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Permitted Reasons: Access is granted for inspections, necessary repairs, or to comply with health and safety regulations.
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Emergency Exception: Landlords may enter immediately and without notice only in cases of genuine emergencies (e.g., fire, gas leak, or severe water pipe burst) that threaten safety or property.
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Consent: Outside of emergencies or specific maintenance/inspection duties, a landlord typically needs the tenant’s consent or a court order to enter.
Note: Entering without proper notice or for reasons not specified in the lease or law can be considered “unlawful entry” or “harassment” under New Jersey’s “Truth in Renting” guidelines.
The information for this answer was found on our New Jersey Landlord Tenant Rights answers.