Newark To Require Registration of All Rental Properties

Newark Strengthens Rental Oversight with Landmark Housing Ordinance

Newark, NJ - In an effort to improve communication between landlords, tenants, and the city, Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced that the Newark Municipal Council has passed a groundbreaking ordinance. The new regulation requires landlords to register all rental units with the City's Department of Economic and Housing Development (EHD) within 120 days of its adoption.

The ordinance is expected to counter corporate investors who buy up owner-occupied homes, convert them into rentals, and fail to maintain them. It will also address anonymous LLCs that evade contact from tenants and the city.

"This ordinance not only helps streamline interaction between tenants and property owners towards solutions, but is also part of our strategy to counter corporate investors," said Mayor Baraka. "We want to ensure that Newark residents have affordable, quality housing, a direct process to address emergencies and repairs, and the peace and security of a stable residence that allows them to enjoy other aspects of life in our great City."

Landlords are now required to provide contact information for themselves, those responsible for regular maintenance, and parties providing fuel and 24/7 emergency services for each unit. Out-of-county landlords must also supply contact information for an authorized party in Essex County to accept tenant notices and legal services.

Additionally, the City will inspect rental units once every three years or upon a change in occupancy to ensure compliance with state and local regulations. Landlords will be required to pay a $50 inspection fee per unit, which must be renewed every three years and upon a change of tenant. Non-compliance will result in an increased fee of $100 per unit.

Upon compliance, landlords will receive a Certificate of Habitability, which permits their properties to be rented. In the event of an unsatisfactory inspection, the property must not be leased until conditions are corrected. The certificate can be suspended or revoked if a rental unit is overcrowded or in a dangerous condition, with each violation punishable by a fine of up to $1,250 in Municipal Court.

This new ordinance ensures that Newark residents have a direct process to address emergencies, repairs, and other housing concerns, thereby promoting affordable, quality housing for all.