Registration and Inspection Now Required for Rental Properties

The following is an outline of the recently adopted ordinance (Ordinance 2007-02) that requires registration of all residential rental properties and the inspection of those properties prior to any new rental. You may pick up a copy of the ordinance in its entirety at the clerks office, call the clerk’s office if you would like a copy mailed to you, or download a copy from the town web site.

  • Statement Required – Every owner of premises used for residential rental property must file a statement with the South Hackensack Building Department. This statement, “Rental Property Registration Form” should be filed immediately with the current owner/tenant(s) information.
  • Certificate of Inspection is required for all residential rental property prior to a new rental or lease.
  • Fee for Certificate of Inspection: $50 inspection, $10 re-inspection
  • Fee for Smoke Detector/Carbon Monoxide/Fire Extinguisher Compliance (Required by the Uniform Fire Safety Act): $25

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Do I need to file the Statement (Rental Property Registration Form) for a property even if it is a one-family home?
    Yes, if you are the owner of a home that you rent, whether you rent one unit or more, whether you live there or not, you must complete the statement and return it to the township.
  2. Is an inspection required at this time?
    An inspection is required prior to a new tenant moving in. You do not need an inspection if tenants already occupy the unit; however you are required to complete and submit the Rental Property Registration Form.
  3. Is there a fee to file the Rental Property Registration Form?
    No, there is no fee to file the required form. There is a fee for a Certificate of Inspection and Smoke Detector/Carbon Monoxide/Fire Extinguisher Compliance (required by Uniform Fire Safety Act), which is required prior to every new tenant occupancy.
  4. How shall I arrange for an inspection of the rental unit(s) that I own?
    Applications for Certificate of Inspection may be obtained from the Building Department between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday; Tuesday & Thursday evenings between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Upon filing of an application and the appropriate fee, an inspection will be scheduled by the Building Department. You may contact the Building Department by calling 201-440-1815 ext. 106 or 120.