Permits tenant to make rent payment into escrow account in event of persisting serious hazard in dwelling unit or to make repairs and deduct cost from future rent.

This bill allows tenants in New Jersey to pay rent into an escrow account or perform repairs and deduct costs if a serious hazard, such as mold or a broken heating system, persists after they notify the landlord. The legislation protects tenants from eviction for failing to pay rent directly to the landlord while these issues are being addressed. Additionally, it authorizes tenants to make repairs themselves and deduct up to four months' worth of rent from future payments if the landlord does not fix the problem within a reasonable time. These measures are designed to ensure that living conditions remain safe and habitable without immediately triggering eviction proceedings.