Lock changes, dwelling unit, domestic violence victim, landlord, temporary, permanent restraining order, notification.
N.J. Stat. § 46:8-9.14
in effect2. a. A court that issues a temporary restraining order pursuant to section 12 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-28) or permanent restraining order pursuant to section 13 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-29) may include an order requiring the landlord of a residential dwelling unit to change the locks on the dwelling unit where the victim of domestic violence resides. A victim who has obtained such an order shall notify the landlord in writing that the victim has been granted an order pursuant to this section and section 12 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-28) or section 13 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-29) to change the locks on a dwelling unit in which the victim resides. b. If a landlord has not installed new locks within 48 hours of receiving a written request pursuant to subsection a. of this section, the victim shall be authorized to change the locks on a residential dwelling unit in which the victim resides. c. A victim who changes the locks on a residential rental dwelling unit pursuant to subsection b. of this section shall notify the landlord of the rental dwelling unit that the locks on the unit have been changed and provide a copy of the new keys not more than 48 hours after implementing the change of locks. d. A victim who changes the locks of a residential rental dwelling unit pursuant to this section shall be responsible for the costs associated with changing the locks on the rental unit, but may seek reimbursement for these costs pursuant to section 13 of P.L.1991, c.261 (C.2C:25-29). e. (1) If a victim changes the locks on a residential rental dwelling unit pursuant to subsection b. of this section, the landlord of the residential dwelling unit shall not be responsible or held liable to the victim, other tenant of the same dwelling unit, or an invitee, for any damages to: (a) the dwelling unit; (b) personal property in the dwelling unit; or (c) the victim, other tenant of the same dwelling unit, or an invitee sustained while at the dwelling unit. (2) The protections from landlord liability and responsibility established by paragraph (1) of this subsection shall only apply to damages that occur: (a) 48 hours after the victim implements the change of locks; (b) before the victim notifies the landlord that the locks have been changed and provides the landlord with a copy of the new keys; and (c) while the victim continues to reside at the dwelling unit. L.2023, c.174, s.2.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislative-activity/statutesFetched: 10/17/2026