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Facing an eviction can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) now has a new interactive guide designed to support tenants who are navigating the eviction process in New Jersey. This tool offers timely, practical, and personalized support to help tenants understand their rights and find the assistance they need.

Access the tool here:

A Clearer Path Through the Eviction Process

Eviction proceedings can be confusing, especially given New Jersey’s detailed landlord-tenant laws. DCA’s new guide breaks down the eviction process step-by-step, helping tenants make informed decisions and take appropriate action.

“This new guide is a vital tool in helping tenants understand their rights and responsibilities,” said DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “It's part of our broader effort to prevent unnecessary evictions and promote housing stability.”

What the Interactive Guide Offers

This user-focused guide is packed with features that provide clarity and support when it's needed most:

• Tailored Advice: After answering a few yes-or-no questions, tenants receive customized guidance specific to their eviction situation.
• Legal Information: The guide outlines legal defenses that may apply, as well as tips on how to gather and present evidence in court.
• Local Help: Tenants are connected to county-specific support services—ranging from legal aid and case management to rent relief and relocation assistance.

Part of a Broader Housing Stability Strategy

The guide is just one part of DCA’s comprehensive housing stability strategy. Through virtual town halls, collaboration with community partners, and legislative outreach, DCA is continuing to elevate the importance of housing security across New Jersey.

Leading these initiatives is the Office of Eviction Prevention (OEP), which supports tenants through direct services like rental assistance and legal support, and educates the public with resources such as the Truth in Renting Guide.

 

What does best practice in eviction prevention look like in NJ?

Comprehensive Eviction Defense & Diversion (CEDD) is a statewide network of organizations  working together to provide comprehensive support services including  case management, help with rent arrears and or relocation, and legal support -

The CEDD Network: Supporting Tenants Holistically

One of the most impactful initiatives under OEP is the Comprehensive Eviction Defense & Diversion (CEDD) Network. This statewide collaboration brings together social service organizations and legal professionals to provide extensive support for at-risk tenants.

The CEDD Network focuses on:

• Prevention: Stopping lockouts before they happen
• Justice: Ensuring tenants understand and exercise their rights
• Diversion: Promoting mediation and fair settlements
• Relief: Connecting tenants to rental and utility assistance
• Equity: Serving vulnerable families and individuals
• Evidence-Based Action: Using real-time data to guide interventions

Rising Federal Challenges, Stronger State Response

Amid looming federal budget cuts that may reduce critical rental assistance funding, DCA is doubling down on its mission to protect tenants. With fewer federal housing vouchers potentially available, state-level tools like the eviction guide are even more essential.

A Tool for Today and Tomorrow

DCA’s new eviction guide is more than a response to rising eviction rates, it’s a commitment to empowering New Jersey residents with the information and resources they need to remain stably housed.