What is the maximum security deposit in Pennsylvania?

In the first year, up to 2 months' rent. After the first year, the maximum decreases to 1 month's rent.

How quickly must a Pennsylvania landlord return a deposit?

Within 30 days of the end of the lease term, with an itemized statement of any deductions.

Lease Agreement for Pennsylvania

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Pennsylvania legal context

Pennsylvania's Landlord and Tenant Act governs residential leases. The state does not have rent control, and security deposit rules limit the first year's deposit to two months' rent and subsequent years to one month. Philadelphia has additional tenant protections including a rental license requirement and lead disclosure rules.

What's required

Security Deposit Limits and Return
68 P.S. § 250.511a

Key PA statutes

Landlord and Tenant Act
68 Pa. C.S. §§ 250.101-250.602
Governs residential and commercial lease agreements, security deposits, and eviction procedures.
Security Deposit Rules
68 Pa. C.S. § 250.511a-512
Limits deposits to 2 months' rent in year one and 1 month thereafter. 30-day return requirement.

Pennsylvania-specific considerations

Graduated Security Deposit Limits
First year: maximum 2 months' rent. After the first year: maximum 1 month's rent.
30-Day Deposit Return
Security deposits must be returned within 30 days of lease termination with an itemized list of deductions.
Philadelphia-Specific Rules
Philadelphia requires a rental license, has additional lead paint rules, and is considering additional tenant protections.