Pennsylvania Real Estate Laws on Landlord-Tenant Leases

Pennsylvania’s real estate laws significantly shape the relationship between landlords and tenants. Understanding these laws is essential for both parties to ensure compliance, protect rights, and foster harmonious living conditions. Below is an overview of the key aspects of landlord-tenant leases in Pennsylvania.

1. Lease Agreements
In Pennsylvania, lease agreements can be oral or written, although written agreements are recommended for clarity. Lease terms typically include the duration of the lease, rental amount, payment due dates, and responsibilities for maintenance and repairs. Written leases must be signed by both parties, and specific disclosures must be provided, including lead paint information for properties built before 1978.

2. Security Deposits
The state law permits landlords to collect a security deposit, which can be up to two months’ rent for leases longer than one year or one month’s rent for leases shorter than one year. Landlords must deposit this security in an interest-bearing account, and tenants are entitled to the interest accrued when the lease ends. Upon vacating the property, landlords have 30 days to return the security deposit minus any permissible deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

3. Repairs and Maintenance
Under Pennsylvania law, landlords are required to maintain rental properties in a habitable condition, adhering to local housing codes. This includes the responsibility for essential repairs, such as plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. Tenants must promptly report any issues, and landlords are obligated to address these repairs promptly.

4. Rent Increases
In Pennsylvania, landlords can increase rent at the end of a lease term. However, they must provide ample notice, ideally outlined in the lease agreement. For month-to-month leases, a written notice of at least 30 days is generally required before implementing any rent increase.

5. Termination of Lease
Either party may terminate the lease at the end of its term. In cases of month-to-month leases, tenants must provide written notice of at least 30 days. For breaches of the lease, such as non-payment of rent or violation of lease terms, landlords may issue a 10-day notice for tenants to comply or vacate. If the tenant does not comply, the landlord may proceed with eviction.

6. Eviction Process
Evictions in Pennsylvania require a legal process. Landlords must file for eviction with the local court after providing the proper notice. If the court rules in favor of the landlord, they will issue an order for eviction, which must be carried out by a sheriff. Tenants have the right to contest the eviction and may seek legal aid if necessary.

7. Anti-Discrimination Laws
Landlords in Pennsylvania cannot discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. Fair housing laws ensure that all applicants have an equal opportunity to rent housing without bias.

Conclusion
Understanding Pennsylvania real estate laws governing landlord-tenant leases is crucial for both landlords and tenants to protect their rights and responsibilities. By being informed about lease agreements, security deposits, maintenance obligations, rent increases, lease termination, eviction processes, and anti-discrimination laws, both parties can navigate their rental relationships more effectively. For further assistance, it’s often beneficial to consult with a legal expert specializing in Pennsylvania real estate law.