All Forum Posts by: Bruce Lynch

Ah maybe I’m not explaining what I want to do well enough.

I want the option to NOT offer a new lease. Can I have them sign a lease stating that they will vacate at end of term if no action is taken to offer a new lease?

Or would NJ landlord/tenant regulations entitle tenants to continue leasing? It seems like in NJ, if no action is taken, then the lease on a unit in a 4plex would convert to month-month.

Thanks for the replies. Everyone’s situation is always a little different. I just saw a 4-unit that will have carryover tenants. I’d like to get tenants in place that I screen and at higher rent rate. So I wouldn’t want to be locked into keeping the inherited tenants longer than required. I also want the option open to convert a rented unit for personal use and/or Airbnb rental in a couple of years.

The truth in renting guide makes it seem like a 4-unit property owner has to offer new lease unless there is ‘cause’ not to. So it is possible to include language in the lease that avoids automatic conversion to month-month and doesn’t require the landlord to renew?

Hello All, 

In reading through the “Truth in Renting” literature, I understand why NJ has a reputation for being tenant friendly.

From what I understand, the landlord of a 4-unit building in NJ must allow a tenant to sign a new lease unless there is good cause. And yearly leases automatically convert to month-to-month at the end of the term. Are there any ways to avoid being locked into this? 

For instance, could I include a clause in the lease stating that the lease terminates unless tenants take action? Something like:

“The lease expires upon the written date. Tenant must vacate on or before this date. Landlords may offer new lease if written request to renew is received 90 days prior to expiration. Month to month leases are not allowed.”

Thanks

Bruce