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Landlord's Return of Security Deposit to Tenant

The complete text of New Jersey’s security deposit law can be found at New Jersey Statutes Annotated 46:8-19 to 26. In New Jersey, generally a landlord must return the security deposit within 30 days after tenant move out or lease termination. The landlords are also responsible to return any accumulated interest or earnings.


There are other situations in which the landlord has to return the money faster.  In the case in which a tenant has ended their lease because they are a victim of domestic violence, the landlord has 15 days to return the security deposit. Also, if a tenant has been displaced due to a floor, fire, evacuation or condemnation of property, the landlord is required to return the security deposit within 5 days.


A landlord may be able to keep all or a part of a tenant’s security deposit for unpaid rent and for damage to the property in excess of normal wear and tear.  However, the landlord is not allowed to make any deductions from the security deposit until the tenant has moved out of the unit.


For more information  please contact our office at 201-880-5563 or visit us at www.ruizdoolanlaw.com for a consultation.



Disclaimer: The contents of this website are of general nature and not intended to be a substitute for legal advice or the formation of a lawyer-client relationship. In order to be properly represented, please contact your local professional. In addition, the information given on this web site has been composed by a New Jersey attorney practicing exclusively in New Jersey. None of the information contained herein should be deemed to apply in other states, nor should this website be construed as an attempt by the author to practice law in any state other than New Jersey. If you have any question regarding this website please contact our office directly at (201) 880-5563.
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