📜 State Law Guide • Updated January 2025
Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Laws 2025
Pennsylvania laws balance landlord and tenant rights, with unique escalating rules for security deposits based on tenancy length.
None
Rent Control
2 months max
Deposit (Year 1)
30 days
Deposit Return
10-30 days
Eviction Notice
Security Deposit Rules
Pennsylvania has a unique tiered system for security deposits that changes based on how long the tenant has lived in the property.
- First Year: Maximum 2 months rent
- Second Year & On: Maximum 1 month rent (landlord must return excess)
- After 5 Years: Deposit cannot be increased, even if rent goes up
- Escrow: Deposits over $100 must be in an approved bank; interest paid to tenant after year 2
- Return Deadline: 30 days with itemized list of damages
Eviction Process
Evictions in Pennsylvania begin with a "Notice to Quit". The time required depends on the reason and lease length.
| Reason / Lease Type | Notice Required |
|---|---|
| Non-payment of rent | 10 days |
| Lease violation / End of term (< 1 year) | 15 days |
| Lease violation / End of term (> 1 year) | 30 days |
| Illegal drug activity | 10 days (first conviction) |
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