Limits amount of residential rental property application fee; establishes penalty.

Application fee cap protects New Jersey renters

Beginning May 1, 2026, New Jersey caps covered residential rental application fees and similar charges at $50. The cap covers applications to lease or sublease, but excludes units in one- or two-family homes offered for rent. New Jersey Real Estate Commission licensees are also exempt unless they are the landlord. Starting January 1, 2027, the cap rises annually only when the specified New York-area Consumer Price Index increases. Each adjustment matches the percentage increase over the 12 months ending the previous October 31. The State Treasurer determines adjustments by December 1 for the following calendar year. Consumer Affairs must publish the current cap online, adopt implementing rules, and provide an online way to report violations. Civil penalties reach $500 for a first offense, $750 for a second, and $1,000 for each later offense. Applicants receive the amount wrongfully charged from the collected penalty. Consumer Affairs or the Attorney General brings enforcement complaints in the Superior Court’s Special Civil Part where the property is located.