Pennsylvania
1.1 million Hispanics
Summary: renting in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania limits deposits and reduces the maximum allowed after the first year of lease.
In this guide you will find, clearly and in plain language, the essentials about renting in Pennsylvania: how much the landlord can charge you for a deposit, how much notice they must give you before an eviction, whether rent control exists, and what your basic rights are as a tenant. Knowing these rules is the first step to living with peace of mind and avoiding abuse.
Main law: Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951
Maximum deposit
2 months (1st year) / 1 month (after)
Eviction notice
10 days
Rent control
No statewide rent control
💡 Tip for Pennsylvania
After living there for a year, the landlord cannot withhold more than one month of rent as a deposit.
⚠️ Common problem to avoid
Deposit: the landlord has 30 days to return it with the written list of damages.
Key tenant rights in Pennsylvania
- • Right to a habitable and safe home
- • Protection against housing discrimination
- • Right to privacy (notice before the landlord enters)
- • Protection against retaliation for legitimate complaints
- • Right to the return of the security deposit
Do you have a problem with your landlord in Pennsylvania? Follow these steps
- 1
Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts, and take dated photos of any problem in the home.
- 2
Always notify your landlord in writing (text message, email, or letter) and keep a copy. Verbal messages do not work as proof.
- 3
If the landlord does not respond, seek free legal help for Pennsylvania tenants. Many organizations advise you at no cost.
- 4
Call 2-1-1 to find local housing resources and assistance in your area, available in Spanish.
- 5
If you suffered discrimination, report it for free to HUD by calling 1-800-669-9777.
Frequently asked questions about Pennsylvania
How much can the landlord ask me for a security deposit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the security deposit limit is: 2 months (1st year) / 1 month (after). Always keep the payment receipt and take photos of the home condition when you move in to protect your money.
How much notice can they give me before eviction in Pennsylvania?
The typical eviction notice in Pennsylvania is 10 days. Never ignore a notice: respond immediately and seek free legal help if you believe the eviction is unfair.
Is there rent control in Pennsylvania?
About rent control in Pennsylvania: No statewide rent control. Even if there is no state control, some cities have their own rules, so check the local ordinance.
What is the main law that protects me as a tenant in Pennsylvania?
The key law in Pennsylvania is the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951. This rule defines your basic rights over habitability, deposits, repairs, and the eviction process.
Resources in Pennsylvania
- • Call 2-1-1 for local resources
- • Free legal help for Pennsylvania tenants
- • HUD — Discrimination complaints
Need a letter?
Download free model letters and documents to claim your deposit, request repairs, and more.
See documents