Do this today
- Write the date, time, who entered, and whether you were told in advance.
- Keep texts, emails, or posted notes about entry.
- If you felt unsafe, that is a safety issue as well as a tenancy issue — 911 if someone is in danger.
- Do not change locks without confirming New Jersey rules and the lease.
What usually depends on the reason?
Emergencies, agreed-upon repairs, and showings to buyers or new tenants are often treated differently in New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act and tenancy statutes. A national “24 hours” line is a rumor, not a rule we will print. The hour-count, if New Jersey has one, is in the chapter.
What if it keeps happening?
Repeated unannounced entry is worth a dated log. Whether New Jersey treats that as a breach, a privacy violation, or something a court can stop is a legal-aid question. The log is what you take them.
The New Jersey chapter
New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act and tenancy statutes (N.J. Stat. §§ 2A:18-61.1 to 2A:18-61.67; 46:8-1 to 46:8-50) is the starting point. We name it. We do not paraphrase a day-count or a dollar cap out of it.
New Jersey state law is the floor. Cities may add rent boards, just-cause rules, or extra protected classes. Confirm locally.
Official sources
Common questions
Can my landlord in New Jersey enter without notice?
Sometimes, for emergencies. For other reasons, New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act and tenancy statutes usually requires notice of some kind. We do not print an hour-count. Write down what happened and confirm the chapter.
Can I refuse entry in New Jersey?
It depends on the reason, the notice, and the lease. Refusing a lawful entry can become a lease issue. Ask legal aid before you change locks or bar a posted repair visit.
The national landlord entry guide has the full sequence. Open the landlord entry guide
People also ask
Last reviewed 8 September 2026. Legal information, not legal advice. Not a law firm. hello@renterprotection.org
