The proposed bill seeks to limit the increase of recurring fees charged to residential tenants in New Jersey, establishing a cap of 10 percent on such fees over a 12-month period. "Recurring fees" are defined as any charges not included in the base rent, such as those for amenities, pets, parking, and convenience fees. Landlords are prohibited from raising these fees beyond the specified limit and can set an initial fee for new tenancies, with subsequent increases also subject to the 10 percent cap. Tenants are restricted from entering subleases that would result in fee increases exceeding this limit.

To enforce compliance, the bill imposes penalties on landlords who violate these provisions, including a $1,000 fine per violation and the option for tenants to terminate their leases and recover legal fees. Additionally, the bill amends the Anti-Eviction Act to classify violations of the fee cap as unconscionable rent increases, thereby preventing landlords from initiating eviction actions based on such violations. The legislation aims to protect tenants from excessive fee increases while ensuring landlords retain their rights to manage their properties effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:18-61.1