Attempts to Force Tenants from Foreclosed Properties Illegal in N.J.

New York, NY —

New Jersey officials are reminding tenants that they don't have to leave home if their landlord faces foreclosure.

REPORTER: The state's Public Advocate, Ronald Chen, says as the housing market worsens, bankers, lawyers and real estate brokers are illegally trying to remove tenants from properties by sending them threatening letters.

CHEN: Just out out falsely saying you have to get out, or saying we're going to change the locks on the doors and then saying talk to us and we may give you some money - a cash for keys program.

REPORTER: Chen says New Jersey has one of the stronger tenant protection laws in the nation. Anyone who repeatedly tries to remove tenants from a foreclosed property could be fined or charged with a felony.