N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-38
Definitions
Operative Text
The following terms whenever used or referred to in this act shall have the following respective meanings for the purposes of this act, except in those instances where the context clearly indicates otherwise: a. The term "unit of dwelling space" shall mean any room or rooms, or suite or apartment thereof, whether furnished or unfurnished, which is occupied, or intended, arranged or designed to be occupied, for sleeping or dwelling purposes by one or more persons, including but not limited to the owner thereof, or any of his servants, agents or employees, and shall include all privileges, services, furnishings, furniture, equipment, facilities and improvements connected with the use or occupancy thereof. b. The term "multiple dwelling" shall mean any building or structure or group or complex of buildings or structures and any land appurtenant thereto in which 10 or more units of dwelling space are occupied or are intended to be occupied by 10 or more persons who live independently of each other. c. The term "owner" shall mean the person who owns, purports to own or exercises control of any multiple dwelling. L.1974, c. 48, s. 1, eff. June 25, 1974.
Section 46:8-38 of N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. establishes the foundational definitions that govern the rest of New Jersey's multiple dwelling law. A 'unit of dwelling space' covers any room or combination of rooms designed or used for sleeping or living, along with all associated services and furnishings. A 'multiple dwelling' is a building or complex with ten or more independently occupied units, and an 'owner' is anyone who owns, claims to own, or exercises control over such a property.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers should understand that N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-38 sets the scope of who and what falls under New Jersey's multiple dwelling regulations. Operators of buildings with ten or more independently occupied units are classified as owners of a 'multiple dwelling,' meaning the full suite of obligations under this act applies to them. Compliant operators typically review whether their properties meet the ten-unit threshold and ensure that all spaces designed or used for dwelling purposes—along with associated furnishings and services—are accounted for under their management responsibilities.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-38, tenants living in a building with ten or more independently occupied units are residing in a 'multiple dwelling,' which means the protections established throughout this act may apply to their situation. The broad definition of 'unit of dwelling space' includes not just the physical room but also privileges, services, furnishings, and facilities connected to occupancy. Tenants who believe their building qualifies under these definitions and that their rights under the act are not being honored may consider contacting a local tenant-rights organization or New Jersey's relevant housing authorities for general information.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 6, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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