By the MoveMatched editorial team · Last updated 2026-10-29
General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change, so confirm with the official source or a licensed professional.
Renting in New Jersey comes with its own rules. In 2026 the state capped rental application fees, attorney review applies to many leases, and broker fees work differently from New York City. Here is what renters should know before they apply.
The $50 rental application fee cap
New Jersey law P.L. 2025, chapter 405 caps rental application fees and similar fees at $50. The cap took effect on May 1, 2026 and applies to landlords and their agents. It does not apply to units in owner occupied buildings with one or two units. The state adjusts the cap for inflation each year starting in 2027, and the Division of Consumer Affairs publishes the current amount.
If you are asked to pay more than the cap in application, screening or similar fees, ask the landlord or agent to explain it, and check the state's guidance.
Who pays the broker fee in New Jersey
As of this update, New Jersey has no statewide law like New York City's FARE Act. Who pays a broker fee depends on who hired the broker and what the agreements say. If you sign an agreement with a broker to find you an apartment, you may owe that broker a fee. If the landlord hired the broker, the landlord often pays.
Bills have been introduced in the New Jersey Legislature to stop charging certain broker costs to tenants. Check the Legislature's site for the current status before you rely on any change.
Always ask before you tour: Is there a broker fee, how much is it, and who pays it? Get the answer in writing.
How New York City is different
In New York City, the FARE Act took effect on June 11, 2025. Under it, landlords and their agents cannot charge tenants for a broker the landlord hired. Tenants can still hire their own broker and agree to pay them. That is a city law, and it does not apply in New Jersey.
Attorney review applies to many leases
If a licensed agent prepares a residential lease of one year or more and earns a fee on the deal, the lease must include a three business day attorney review clause. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays do not count. Tenant and landlord can each have an attorney review and cancel the lease within that window.
Know your rights
New Jersey's Department of Community Affairs publishes the Truth in Renting guide, a statement of tenant and landlord rights. Landlords are required to give it to tenants. Read it before you sign.
A quick checklist before you apply
- Ask about every fee in writing: application, broker, move in and amenity fees.
- Confirm the security deposit amount and where it will be held.
- Read the lease, including renewal, pets, subletting and repairs.
- Use the attorney review window if your lease has one.
- Take dated photos of the apartment at move in.
Working with an agent as a renter
A local agent can tell you which buildings fit your budget and commute, how fast apartments are renting, and what landlords in the area usually ask for. Ask up front how the agent is paid on rentals so there are no surprises.
Questions people ask
- How much can a New Jersey landlord charge for a rental application?
- Under P.L. 2025, chapter 405, application and similar fees are capped at $50 starting May 1, 2026, with yearly inflation adjustments from 2027. Owner occupied one or two unit buildings are not covered.
- Does the NYC FARE Act apply in New Jersey?
- No. The FARE Act is a New York City law. In New Jersey, who pays a broker fee depends on who hired the broker and what the agreements say.
- Do New Jersey leases have attorney review?
- Leases of one year or more prepared by a licensee who earns a fee on the deal must include a three business day attorney review clause.
- Can MoveMatched help me rent?
- Yes. Tell us what you need and we match you with one licensed local agent who works rentals in your town.