How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Pennsylvania?

Two months' rent in the first year of the lease; one month's rent in later years (Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, Art. V-A, §§ 511.1, 511.2, 512 (68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512)).

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Pennsylvania?

30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises, whichever comes first (Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, Art. V-A, §§ 511.1, 511.2, 512 (68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512)).

Pennsylvania security deposit law

The state rules a landlord in Pennsylvania has to follow for a residential security deposit, from Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, Art. V-A, §§ 511.1, 511.2, 512 (68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512).

Maximum deposit: Two months' rent in the first year of the lease; one month's rent in later years.
Deadline to return it: 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises, whichever comes first.
Itemized deductions: Written list of damages claimed, delivered with payment of the balance.
Interest on the deposit: Yes: deposits over $100 go in an escrow account; after the second year the tenant gets the interest, less 1% a year the landlord may keep.
Penalty for wrongful withholding: Landlord who misses the 30 days loses the right to withhold and is liable for double the amount owed back.

Before you keep any part of a deposit

Compare the unit with the move-in inspection and photos. Normal wear and tear is generally not chargeable.
Keep receipts or written estimates for every deduction.
Send the return or the itemized list within the deadline above, to the tenant's forwarding address, and keep proof of mailing.

Working out the last month's rent? The prorated rent calculator does the partial-month math.

Source

Verification status: verified summary. Research date: November 5, 2026. Statute: Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, Art. V-A, §§ 511.1, 511.2, 512 (68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512). Source: www.palegis.us.

General information, not legal advice. Cities and counties can add stricter rules, and laws change. Check the current statute or a local attorney before you act.

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Last updated November 5, 2026.