How to register as a landlord in Camden
New Jersey's New Jersey Landlord Registration / Identity Law (N.J.S.A. 46:8-27 to 46:8-37) applies statewide, so the registration requirement is the same in Camden as it is everywhere else in New Jersey. It requires landlords to file a certificate of registration identifying who owns and manages the property and who to reach in an emergency.
Where to file
- One-unit rentals, and two-unit non-owner-occupied properties: Municipal clerk of the town where the property is located (or the official the clerk designates).
- Three or more units (multiple dwellings): NJ DCA Bureau of Housing Inspection.
- Single- and two-family rentals (2007 amendment): Owners of tenant-occupied single-family and two-family properties must also file a registration with the DCA Bureau of Housing Inspection (46:8-28.5), with limited exceptions (e.g., certified lead-free or post-1978 owner-occupied two-family, seasonal rental under 6 months).
Key obligations
- File within 30 days, or at creation of the first tenancy in a newly constructed/reconstructed building (46:8-28).
- Give each tenant a copy of the registration certificate at the start of a new tenancy (46:8-29).
- File an amended certificate within 20 days of any change to the form's information (46:8-28.2).
If you don't register
In an action for possession by a non-compliant landlord, no judgment for possession until registration; the court continues the case up to 90 days, then dismisses (46:8-33). Penalty up to $500 per offense (46:8-35); tenant rights cannot be waived (46:8-36).
Official source: NJ DCA - Landlord Identity Law (N.J.S.A. 46:8-27 to 46:8-37) (PDF)
Generate your Camden landlord registration kit
A completed registration statement with every statutory field, filing instructions routed to the right office, and a tenant copy. We show you what to file and where; some towns also require their own form.
Start the registration kit for CamdenCertificate of occupancy / rental inspection in Camden
N.J.S.A. 40:48-2.12a and 40:48-2.12m authorize municipalities to require a certificate of inspection or occupancy for residential rental property prior to a new occupancy. This is why the requirement exists town-by-town rather than as one statewide process.
- Program
- Rental Approval Certificate / occupancy permit
- Office
- Department of Code Enforcement / Office of Rent Control (Housing Bureau)
- When it's triggered
- A new occupancy permit is required for each unit prior to a change of tenants; rentals must register and obtain a Rental Approval Certificate before occupancy.
- What to know
- Inspection required at change of ownership and/or occupancy; registration with the Office of Rent Control and an inspection for compliance with health, safety, construction, zoning, and fire codes before renting.
- Official sources
Local programs and fees change. Confirm the current rule with Department of Code Enforcement / Office of Rent Control (Housing Bureau) before relying on it.
Camden landlord FAQs
Do I have to register as a landlord in Camden?
Yes. New Jersey's Landlord Registration / Identity Law (N.J.S.A. 46:8-27 to 46:8-37) applies statewide, including Camden. For a single-unit rental or a two-unit non-owner-occupied property you file with the municipal clerk; for three or more units you file with the NJ DCA Bureau of Housing Inspection. A 2007 amendment also requires single- and two-family rental owners to file with the DCA.
Does Camden require a certificate of occupancy before renting?
Yes. Camden runs a Rental Approval Certificate / occupancy permit. A new occupancy permit is required for each unit prior to a change of tenants; rentals must register and obtain a Rental Approval Certificate before occupancy. Inspection required at change of ownership and/or occupancy; registration with the Office of Rent Control and an inspection for compliance with health, safety, construction, zoning, and fire codes before renting. Confirm current details with Department of Code Enforcement / Office of Rent Control (Housing Bureau) and the official sources on this page.
Forms & tools for Camden County landlords
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Consult a licensed attorney or real estate professional for advice specific to your situation.