New Jersey Heating Season Standards Began October 1
Landlords must ensure minimum temperatures in multi-unit buildings throughout the coming months.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Apartments
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Do you believe local regulations are sufficient to ensure your rental unit remains warm enough?
New Jersey heating season mandates took effect on October 1, requiring landlords of properties with at least three units to maintain specific indoor temperatures. This seasonal regulation remains in place through May 15 to ensure habitability for renters across the state.
Why it matters
Establishing a clear temperature baseline provides tenants with a measurable standard for their living conditions. This rule ensures that rental units remain comfortable and safe during the coldest months of the year.
Landlords are required to maintain at least 68 degrees from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and 65 degrees overnight in buildings with three or more units. These standards apply to all multi-unit dwellings throughout the state of New Jersey.
The players
Bureau of Housing Inspection
The state agency tasked with enforcing residential building codes and housing safety standards for New Jersey tenants.
The details
The heating mandate applies to all residential buildings categorized as multiple dwellings, which consist of at least three separate units. Landlords are generally responsible for covering fuel costs unless a written agreement states otherwise. If temperatures fall below these thresholds, tenants are advised to document the issue using specific readings, dates, times, and photographic evidence before contacting the Bureau of Housing Inspection.
Timeline
October 1 marks the beginning of the state-mandated heating season.
May 15 marks the official end of the state-mandated heating season.
The Home Front
This mandate sits within a broader framework of state-level habitability requirements designed to protect renters in high-density housing markets. It follows the long-standing legal precedent set by New Jersey housing statutes to define landlord responsibilities during winter months.
If your home fails to meet these temperature requirements, keep a written log of the indoor temperature, along with photos and time-stamped evidence. You can report non-compliance issues to the Bureau of Housing Inspection by calling 609-633-6227.
The takeaway
Maintaining a record of indoor temperatures is the most effective way for tenants to ensure their landlord stays in compliance with state heat laws. If you experience persistent cold, reach out to the Bureau of Housing Inspection at 609-633-6227 to report the violation.
Further reading
Learn more about your rights as a renter by visiting our Apartments section.
Live Poll
Do you believe local regulations are sufficient to ensure your rental unit remains warm enough?
