Jersey City renters can now check online whether their building is subject to rent control, following the launch of a new citywide property map announced Wednesday.
The tool is part of Jersey City’s first comprehensive rent-control audit. In its initial phase, the city identified more than 1,700 properties containing over 20,000 units that it recognizes as rent controlled.
Until now, much of that information was stored in paper files, spreadsheets and handwritten records at City Hall. Residents who wanted to know whether their apartment was protected by rent-control rules often had to contact the city directly and wait for staff to review the records. The new system allows renters and landlords to search by address online.
Jersey City’s Rent Control Ordinance limits how and when rents can be increased for covered properties. The new map is intended to make it easier for tenants to determine whether those protections apply to their building and whether a rent increase may need additional review.
The city says the database was created by cross-checking tax assessment records, annual landlord registrations and decades of individual property files. Officials caution that the work is still continuing and additional properties may be added as the audit progresses.
Renters who believe they have received an illegal rent increase can contact Jersey City’s Office of Landlord/Tenant Relations and may file an Illegal Rent Petition. Property owners who believe their building qualifies for an exemption can also request a formal review.
Later phases of the audit are expected to include direct notification to tenants living in rent-controlled buildings and an effort to establish the lawful base rent for each covered unit.
Sources: City of Jersey City; News 12 New Jersey
By NJ RADAR Team