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Bill

A 5422

Requires removal of online images of interior of residential property after sale of property upon request of purchaser.

2026-2027 Regular Session

The bill requires removal of interior photos of a sold residential property from online listings upon a buyer’s request to protect post-sale privacy.

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Bill Summary · A 5422

Summary of Bill A-5422 (Session 222, New Jersey)

Purpose and intent

A-5422 would require the removal of online images showing the interior of a residential property after the property has been sold, upon the purchaser’s request. The bill aims to protect the privacy of former property occupants and prevent ongoing access to interior views from public or third-party platforms after ownership changes.

Key provisions and changes

  • Scope: Applies to photographs or images that depict the interior of a residential property that has been sold.
  • Trigger: A purchaser (buyer) of the property can request removal of interior images from online listings or platforms where such images remain accessible.
  • Removal obligation: Upon receiving a valid request from the purchaser, the responsible party must remove or cause the removal of the interior images from online sources.
  • Definition of interior images: Images that capture the interior rooms, layout, fixtures, or other internal features of the home. (The bill would likely provide or rely on standard definitions of “interior” vs. “exterior” imagery.)
  • Timeframe: The bill specifies a window or deadline by which removal must occur after receipt of the purchaser’s request (e.g., a set number of days). If not explicitly stated, the bill would impose a reasonable prompt removal requirement.
  • Who must act: Persons or entities responsible for the online listings or platforms hosting the images, such as real estate brokers, sellers, listing portals, or their agents, would be obligated to remove the images upon request.
  • Compliance and enforcement: Provisions likely outline procedures for handling requests, potential penalties for noncompliance, and remedies or enforcement mechanisms. This may include the ability to seek injunctive relief or monetary penalties, and may designate a supervising authority or civil action as a remedy.

Affected parties and objects

  • Purchasers (buyers): Beneficiaries who can request removal of interior images after purchase.
  • Sellers and former occupants: Their interior imagery could remain online unless the purchaser requests removal and is complied with.
  • Real estate brokers and agents: Responsible for coordinating removal with listing services and ensuring compliance.
  • Online listing platforms and or brokers’ websites: Platforms hosting interior images would need to comply with removal requests.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill would establish a process for verifying requests, communicating with the responsible parties, and documenting compliance.
  • It may specify a compliance deadline (e.g., within a certain number of business days) and outline steps if a platform declines or disputes arise.
  • Potential penalties for failure to remove could include fines, sanctions, or civil actions, depending on the bill’s enforcement framework.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Privacy and security: Enhances post-sale privacy for new owners by limiting public access to interior views of the property.
  • Market implications: Could affect how long interior photos remain publicly visible after closing and how real estate marketing materials are managed.
  • Implementation burden: Adds obligations on brokers, property owners, and platforms to identify and remove interior images promptly.
  • Scope clarification: The bill’s effectiveness depends on clear definitions of “interior images,” applicability to all online platforms, and whether archived or cached images are covered.

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s stated objectives and typical provisions based on the title and jurisdiction. For precise language, definitions, procedures, and any enacted amendments, refer to the official bill text and legislative notes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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