The "Safeguarding Livable Units through Municipal Landlord Oversight and Regulation by DCA" or "SLUMLORD Act" is designed to strengthen tenant protections in New Jersey by establishing a Habitability Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Program within the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). This program will work with local agencies to inform tenants of their rights and pursue legal action against landlords who violate habitability standards. Key features of the bill include the codification of an implied warranty of habitability in rental agreements, the requirement for landlords to appoint a principal agent for tenant communications, and the provision for tenants to sue for damages related to habitability violations. The bill also allocates $5 million to support its implementation and enforcement.

Additionally, the SLUMLORD Act introduces significant changes to existing landlord-tenant laws, including the ability for municipalities to address violations at the landlord's expense and the personal liability of principal agents for severe violations. It establishes a habitability database to track violations and mandates that landlords register their properties with detailed ownership information. The bill also allows tenants to recover attorney's fees if they successfully defend against landlord actions, promoting fairness in legal proceedings. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance tenant protections and ensure that landlords maintain safe and livable conditions in rental properties.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 46:8-28, 42:2C-30, 2A:18-61.66