Paterson, NJ asked in Landlord - Tenant for New Jersey

Q: single mother renting a home in NJ and I am the only one on my lease, what is the process to have my adult son removed?

He has been living with me since June 2022 but has an alchohol and crack cocaine addiction. He refuses to get help and refuses to leave when requested. He pays no rent and is not listed on my lease. He is no longer welcome in my home. Can I just change the locks and refuse him entry or am I required to follow other legal guidelines to have him removed?

I was told by an attorney that I don't have to do anything formally, that I can just lock him out but I've also read articles stating I have to formally notify him and provide up to 60 days notice? Does anyone know the exact way to proceed? He simply laughs and says "I'm not going anywhere".

I am just renting my side of a duplex and didn't want to get the owner/landlord involved if possible.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Matthew Schutz
Matthew Schutz
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Flemington, NJ
  • Licensed in New Jersey

A: First let me say sorry to hear about the difficulties you're having with your son.

From what you say in your question, you could probably file for an ejectment to remove your son. He is over 18, doesn't pay rent to you, doesn't make any contribution to the household expenses. An ejectment will take about a month. The eviction process will be longer at least two maybe three months.

Self-help evictions in New Jersey are never an option.

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