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Pennsylvania Landlord Guide

Everything you need to know about landlord-tenant laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and property management in Pennsylvania.

Security Deposit
2 months rent
Return Period
30 days after lease ends
Non-Payment Notice
10-day notice to quit
Rent Control
No

Pennsylvania Rental Market Overview

Pennsylvania offers diverse rental markets from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to college towns and rural areas. Philadelphia has strong rental demand driven by healthcare, education, and growing tech sectors. Pittsburgh offers affordable housing with strong universities. Pennsylvania is moderately landlord-friendly with reasonable tenant protections. Philadelphia has additional local ordinances landlords must follow.

Security Deposit Rules

Maximum Deposit

2 months rent (first year), 1 month rent (after first year)

Return Timeline

30 days after lease ends

Allowed Deductions

  • Unpaid rent
  • Breach of lease damages
  • Damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Cleaning costs if specified in lease

Eviction Process

Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent
10-day notice to quit
Lease Violation
15-day notice to quit (30 days for lease term violations)
Month-to-Month Termination
15 days (under 1 year) or 30 days (over 1 year)

Court Process

After notice expires, file complaint with local court. Hearing within 7-15 days. If landlord wins, tenant has 10 days to appeal or vacate.

Required Landlord Disclosures

Pennsylvania law requires landlords to provide the following disclosures to tenants:

  • Lead-based paint (pre-1978 buildings)
  • Security deposit escrow bank information
  • Name and address of owner/agent
  • Philadelphia: Partners for Good Housing certification
  • Philadelphia: Rental license and inspection

Late Fee Rules

No statutory limit, but must be reasonable. Cannot charge late fee if rent is less than 4 days late.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manage Pennsylvania Properties with UnitHub

Stay compliant with Pennsylvania landlord-tenant laws. UnitHub helps you track security deposits, send proper notices, and automate rent collection.