A tenant who causes too many problems can seriously impact the business as well as the overall environment of the property. They may damage the property or the property’s reputation, prompt other tenants to move out or even discourage new clients from renting.
One solution available to landlords is eviction. However, New Jersey landlords can only evict tenants under specific grounds according to state law.
Valid reasons for eviction in New Jersey
According to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, these are some possible grounds to evict a tenant:
- Payment issues: One of the most common reasons for eviction is if the tenant fails to pay rent. However, landlords can also seek eviction if tenants refuse to comply with rent payment hikes or if they regularly pay late.
- Criminal activity: Landlords can file for eviction if a tenant is guilty of committing crimes on the property. For example, they can take action if a tenant commits a drug offense on the property, assaults or threatens the landlord and building employees or steals from other tenants.
- Disorderly conduct: If a tenant disrupts the living environment in an area, refuses to comply with rules or damages property, a landlord could pursue an eviction case against them.
- Breach of contract: A landlord may evict a tenant who goes against the rules established in the lease or does not comply with new rules. For example, they have too many people staying in one residence or they may have pets in a building which prohibits them.
It is important for landlords and property owners in New Jersey to know the valid grounds to seek the removal of a tenant to avoid legal problems that may arise from unlawful eviction.