To report unsafe living conditions in New Jersey, you primarily contact the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), specifically its Bureau of Housing Inspection (BHI), or your local municipal code enforcement or health department.
Key Contacts for Reporting Unsafe Living Conditions
When dealing with a landlord who has not addressed safety or habitability concerns, knowing the right authority to contact is crucial.
Bureau of Housing Inspection (BHI)
The Bureau of Housing Inspection (BHI), part of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), is responsible for enforcing the State's Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Law. This agency typically handles complaints for buildings with three or more dwelling units, as well as hotels and motels. They conduct inspections to ensure properties meet state housing codes.
To file a complaint with the BHI:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | (609) 633-6227 |
| [email protected] |
For more information about the DCA's role in housing, you can visit the official New Jersey Department of Community Affairs website.
Local Municipal Code Enforcement or Health Department
For issues in single-family homes, two-family homes, or specific local ordinance violations, your municipal code enforcement office or local health department is often the primary point of contact. These local agencies handle a variety of housing-related complaints, from property maintenance to pest control and sanitation issues within their jurisdiction.
- How to find them: Search your specific city or town's official website (e.g., "City of [Your Town] Code Enforcement" or "Town of [Your Town] Health Department") to find their contact information.
Steps Before Filing a Formal Complaint
Before contacting state or local authorities, it's highly recommended to take specific steps to strengthen your case and potentially resolve the issue directly with your landlord.
1. Document Everything
Thorough documentation is vital for any complaint. It provides concrete evidence of the unsafe conditions and your efforts to resolve them.
- Photos and Videos: Capture clear images and videos of the unsafe conditions. Ensure they are dated.
- Detailed Records: Keep a log of all incidents, including dates, times, and specific descriptions of the problems.
- Communication Records: Save copies of all correspondence with your landlord, including emails, text messages, and certified mail receipts.
2. Notify Your Landlord in Writing
Always inform your landlord of the unsafe conditions in writing, preferably through a method that provides proof of delivery (like certified mail with a return receipt). This demonstrates that you have given them an opportunity to address the issue.
- Clearly describe the problems and their impact on your living conditions.
- State a reasonable deadline for repairs to be completed (e.g., 7-14 days, depending on the severity of the issue).
- Keep a copy of this notice for your records.
What Are Unsafe Living Conditions?
Unsafe living conditions, also known as uninhabitable conditions, refer to problems in a rental property that pose a threat to a tenant's health, safety, or general well-being. Landlords in New Jersey have a legal obligation to provide a habitable living space.
Common examples of issues that constitute unsafe living conditions include:
- Lack of Essential Services: No heat (during cold months), no hot water, or interrupted water supply.
- Structural Damage: Compromised walls, ceilings, floors, or roof that could lead to collapse or injury.
- Pest Infestations: Severe infestations of rodents, roaches, or other pests that create unsanitary conditions.
- Mold Growth: Extensive mold, especially if it's due to landlord negligence (e.g., unaddressed leaks).
- Electrical Hazards: Exposed wiring, non-functioning outlets, or frequent power surges.
- Plumbing Issues: Persistent leaks, sewage backups, or non-functioning toilets.
- Lack of Security: Broken locks on doors or windows that compromise safety.
- Unsanitary Conditions: Accumulation of waste or hazardous materials due to landlord negligence.
After You File a Complaint
Once you file a complaint with the appropriate authority, an inspection will typically be scheduled. An inspector will assess the conditions and may issue violations to the landlord, requiring them to make necessary repairs by a certain deadline. It's important to cooperate with the inspection process and keep track of any follow-up actions.
