renting out a basement apartment.

[Shibu Thomas]

I've had a 2family house in the greenville section of jersey city for the past 10yrs.  I bought it way too high in 2005 so no point in selling anytime soon.  the place came w/ a fully liveable basement, including kitchen, shower bathroom the rooms have windows.  But still it is illegal i think b/c of the door or maybe ceiling height.  Its in a 2family zone R1 i think its called.  I actually got ratted out by a rotten tennant years ago and an inspection took place, where i had to kick out the basement tennant give her back her rent.  But the inspection went fine, in and out b/c i removed the stove and applainces.  It was a big mess.  Im wondering if anyone out there has experience in NJ maybe even JC.  where how difficult it would be to get a variance to make the basement a legal rental?  I think my neigbor did it a few years back but not sure if he is claiming it as Owner occupied and just rents it out?  Could use some good ideas right about now :)