Got Rent Questions, Concerns In Hoboken? Tenant Advocate Has Office Hours: Here's The Link

HOBOKEN, NJ — Statewide laws govern how much a landlord can raise the rent in New Jersey (regardless of whether the building is rent controlled). Those same rules say that landlords must renew leases — with a few exceptions (such as nonpayment of rent). Selling a building doesn't mean the tenant necessarily has to leave.

But recently, Hoboken residents have been faced with rent increases of more than 25 percent, and with letters from landlords falsely claiming they have to leave.

Don't know the laws? Or need someone to help you deal with these issues?

For many decades, the city of Hoboken has employed a tenant advocate to help those who need more information or advocacy. This practice goes back to the tumultuous days of gentrification.

Want to make an appointment with the city's free tenant advocate?

See below for links to make an appointment, find out what your legal rent should be, and to learn the laws that apply.

Resources And How To Make An Appointment With The Free Tenant Advocate

• If you want to know what the legal rent is on your apartment, you can fill out this form, pay $30, wait a few weeks, and you'll know for sure. Note: Your landlord is notified if you fill out the form.
  
• Hoboken residents with an issue related to tenancy or housing can contact the city’s free tenant advocate and schedule an appointment online at https://sobelhancannonllp.simplybook.me/v2/#book. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday, the city has said.
• Read Hoboken Patch's prior reporting on rent issues and "unconscionable" rents here.
• Read the New Jersey laws about increases, eviction, and Truth in Renting here, here, and here.
• Tenants and landlords interested in learning more about the city's relevant laws and Hoboken rent control can click here.
• Need help with something else from City Hall, or having trouble getting questions answered? You can contact Constituent Services Director Nora DeBenedetto here.