Emergency NJ Housing Information: What to do if your Apartment is no longer Habitable
Renters should be prepared for the possibility that their apartment may become inhabitable during their residence there. Should this occur, here are a few things you should know concerning what you are entitled to, what the state of New Jersey offers to renters, and how you should go about managing your situation.
Suggested steps to take if your residence is damaged due to fire, flooding, earth quakes, etc…
If your apartment becomes inhabitable due to fire, flooding, earth quakes, or other natural occurrences here are some things you should do to help restore order to your life:
Relocate yourself and your family to safety; find a hotel
Contact your insurance company and family members immediately.
Obtain records of the damage prior to attempting to clean it up.
Provide proof of your belongings worth, if possible.
Refrain from making any repairs to your damaged apartment before it’s inspected by an insurance claims adjuster.
Keep records of ALL contact with your insurance agents during this time.
The type of insurance you have (actual cash value or replacement cost coverage) will affect the returns.
You’ll probably need to pay your deductible prior to receiving any assistance from your insurance company.
What to do if the government or another entity deems your home or apartment inhabitable:
First, it’s important to know that:
NJ operates a Relocation Assistance Program to help tenants who must move because their housing unit is no longer habitable or safe.
NJ has also established programs to prevent homelessness by providing assistance to cover back rent to low-income tenants who face eviction for nonpayment of rent.
A government agency may force renters to leave their home. This is called displacement. If you are forced to be displaced, you may qualify for money and support to help you find a new home This money is called relocation assistance.
How can I obtain relocation assistance?
Visit your city or county relocation support office to find out if you are eligible for relocation assistance. You should contact the office as soon as you receive notice that you are being displaced. Call and/or write:
Relocation Support Program
Department of Community Affairs
P.O. Box 806
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 984-7609
Everyone at GardenStateApartments.com wishes you the best of luck and hope that the information suggested above will help you during these difficult times.
