NJ A489

Codifies the implied warranty of habitability into New Jersey statute, requiring that all residential rental premises be fit for human habitation and free from dangerous conditions throughout the lease term.

Allows tenants to assert habitability breaches as a defense in eviction proceedings for non-payment of rent, with rent reduced retroactively up to 12 months to the reasonable value of the defective property.

Eliminates the requirement for tenants to immediately deposit withheld rent with the court when asserting a habitability defense, instead requiring court-ordered code enforcement inspections within 30 days.

Empowers courts to order landlords to deposit State or federal housing subsidies with the court to ensure funds are used for repairs, utilities, and maintaining basic services for tenants.

Voids any lease provisions where tenants waive habitability protections and allows courts to transfer severe cases to Superior Court for appointment of an administrator or receiver to manage the property.