Am I obligated to to renew tenant lease

[Sheltocks M.]

Tenant lease is ending June 2019. I don't want to renew it because of all the issues I've had with him. (Had to take him to court to get the rent. He wouldn't pay the rent because he says I'm too young to own property. He is also creating hostile environment for the tenant upstairs).

Based on NJ law can I choose not to renew the lease or am I obligated to renew his lease? If I am obligated to renew, what's the maximum I can charge him. His current rent is $800 per month. Can I jump to $900 per month or is that considered too big of a jump.

Honestly I need to get him out. What is a legal way for me not to renew his lease?

All responses are appreciated.

[Theresa Harris]

Check the local laws for rules on rent increases, but I can't think of any situation where you'd have to renew his lease.  Give him proper notice (30 or 60 days depending on the wording in the lease and local rules) and do not return his security deposit until he's moved out and you've done the inspection.