Pennsylvania landlord-tenant laws emphasize habitability, fair security deposits, and structured eviction processes, balancing rights for both renters and owners. No statewide rent control exists, but recent 2025 updates expand tenant protections like eviction diversions and deposit interest rules. Key statutes under the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 govern most disputes, with local variations in cities like Philadelphia.​
Security Deposits
Landlords may charge up to two months’ rent in the first year, then one month’s rent thereafter, and must pay interest after two years. Deposits return within 30 days post-tenancy, with itemized deductions for damages beyond wear and tear. Tenants receive details on deposit handling at lease signing.​
Eviction Procedures
Landlords issue 10-day notices for nonpayment, 15-day for short-term lease violations, or 30-day for longer tenancies. Month-to-month leases end with 15 days’ notice; court filings follow if tenants don’t vacate. Retaliatory evictions for repair requests or organizing are prohibited.​
Habitability Duties
Owners maintain safe, sanitary units with working heat, water, and locks; urgent repairs occur promptly. Tenants report issues timely, keep units clean, and pay rent on schedule per lease terms. No grace periods mandated statewide, but late fees require lease specification.​
Rent and Entry Rules
Rent increases need 15 days’ notice for month-to-month; no caps apply statewide. Landlords enter with reasonable notice except emergencies, gaining tenant consent for non-urgent access. Proposed 2025 bills like HB 72 seek 10% hike limits, pending enactment.​
SOURCES
[1](https://latoisonlaw.com/landlord-tenant-blog/pennsylvania-property-and-tenant-laws-in-2024/)
[2](https://innago.com/pennsylvania-landlord-tenant-laws/)
[3](https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/overview-landlord-tenant-laws-pennsylvania.html)
[4](https://www.steadily.com/blog/mid-term-rental-laws-regulations-pennsylvania)
[5](https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/AmendingLegis.cfm?Act=20&ActSessYear=1951&ActSessInd=0&SessYear=2025&SessInd=0)
