N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-9.5
Findings, declarations relative to termination of lease agreements by domestic violence victims
Operative Text
2. The Legislature finds and declares: a. Domestic violence is a serious crime that materially affects the health and safety of numerous New Jersey tenants and there are thousands of persons in this State who are regularly beaten, tortured, sexually assaulted and, in some cases, killed by their spouses or cohabitants; b. The inability to terminate a lease and its corresponding financial obligations may prevent domestic violence victims from leaving abusive relationships and seeking help; c. Domestic violence victims require an efficient method of terminating their lease obligations to escape abuse without that damaging their credit and rental history and, consequently, their ability to secure other safe housing; and d. The assistance and cooperation of the entire community, including landlords, neighbors, and employers, is necessary to reduce the incidence of domestic violence in our State. L.2008, c.111, s.2.
Section 46:8-9.5 of N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. sets out the Legislature's formal findings and policy rationale behind New Jersey's law allowing domestic violence victims to terminate their leases. The Legislature recognized that being locked into a lease and its financial obligations can trap victims in dangerous situations and harm their credit and rental history. The provision also acknowledges that reducing domestic violence requires broad community involvement, including from landlords.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under the policy framework established by N.J.S.A. 46:8-9.5, the Legislature explicitly named landlords as part of the community whose cooperation is essential to addressing domestic violence. Operators who understand this legislative intent generally familiarize themselves with the full statutory scheme under N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. to know when and how a qualifying tenant may terminate a lease early. Being aware of these findings helps property managers respond appropriately when a tenant invokes protections under this law.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
N.J.S.A. 46:8-9.5 reflects the Legislature's recognition that lease obligations can be a barrier preventing domestic violence victims from leaving unsafe situations, and that victims deserve a way to exit those obligations without lasting harm to their credit or rental history. The broader statutory scheme under N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. provides mechanisms for qualifying tenants to act on these protections. Tenants who believe they may be eligible can explore their options by contacting a local tenant-rights organization or a domestic violence advocacy group familiar with New Jersey housing law.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 6, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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