Lease Renewal Question

[Chris Martino]

Hello Everyone, 

My Tenant in an apartment in NJ is coming up on the end of her lease and she would like to renew. I have seen a bunch of renewal forms online and just wanted to see if these were legit or if I should have a lawyer draft something up. The first lease was generated through the realtor since they originally placed the tenant. 

Thanks, 

 Chris

[Jeff Copeland]

It depends on what the original lease says (some have language indicating they automatically renew for one year, or automatically convert to month to month). 

But, generally speaking, you're in a better position with a new lease that covers the specified term of the tenancy. 

What it boils down to is will your lease hold up to legal scrutiny if you have to file for an eviction? And you don't want any cracks whatsoever in that armor. 

So yes - I'd recommend talking to an attorney in your State who specializes in leases and evictions.