Pennsylvania Landlord Compliance Checklist (Landlord Tenant Act)
Essential compliance checklist for PA landlords: Landlord Tenant Act requirements, escrow deposits, Philadelphia registration, and eviction procedures.
Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law is governed by the Landlord Tenant Act of 1951. Philadelphia has additional registration and licensing requirements.
Security Deposits & Escrow
PA deposit requirements
Security deposit limits
2 months rent first year, 1 month after. Must hold in escrow account.
Escrow account required
Deposits must be held in separate escrow account in PA institution.
Return deposit within 30 days
Provide itemized list of deductions. Must include interest if held in interest-bearing account.
Philadelphia Registration
Philadelphia-specific requirements
Register property with City of Philadelphia
Annual rental license required. Includes inspections and fees.
Lead certification (Philadelphia)
Properties built pre-1978 require lead certificate or lead-free certification
Eviction & Habitability
Eviction procedures and property standards
10-day notice for non-payment
15-day notice for lease violations. 15-30 day for month-to-month termination.
Maintain habitability
Heat, hot water, working plumbing/electrical, smoke detectors, secure locks
Pro Tips
- •Philadelphia registration mandatory - process property early to avoid delays
- •Use escrow account for all deposits - commingling violates PA law
- •30-day deposit return strictly enforced - calendar reminder essential
- •Philadelphia tenant-friendly - consult attorney for evictions
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