A5263

New Jersey A5263 allows tenants to place rent payments in escrow or deduct repair costs from future rent if serious hazards persist.

New Jersey A5263 permits tenants to remit rent payments into a separate escrow account if a serious hazard affecting habitability persists after notifying the landlord and allowing reasonable time for repairs. The bill defines serious hazards as deficiencies in vital facilities such as mold, unsafe staircases, or broken heating systems. Tenants can also deduct up to four months' rent to make necessary repairs if the landlord fails to act. This action cannot be grounds for eviction.