Leases & legal documents
Pennsylvania Residential Lease Agreement
Pennsylvania’s security deposit rules change after the first year of tenancy, which landlords need to plan for. The state caps deposits at 2 months’ rent in year one, dropping to 1 month’s for all subsequent years, and requires deposits over $100 to be held in escrow. Build your Pennsylvania lease through RentRisk, backed by Rocket Lawyer’s ongoing legal review.
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Pennsylvania Landlord-Tenant Law at a Glance
Security deposit
2 months' rent (first year); 1 month's rent (subsequent years)
Notice to terminate
15 days (tenancy 1 year or less); 30 days (tenancy more than 1 year)
Grace period
No statutory requirement (10-day notice to vacate required before filing for eviction for non-payment)
Entry notice
Reasonable advance notice required (24 hours is standard practice; no specific statute)
Laws change. Your lease stays current.
Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law is governed by the Pennsylvania Landlord-Tenant Act of 1951 (68 P.S. §§250.101-250.602), which provides a framework for deposits, lease terms, habitability, and eviction procedures.
“The information above reflects Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law as of the date this page was last updated and is provided for general informational purposes only. Laws change. RentRisk lease agreements are powered by Rocket Lawyer, whose legal team monitors state law updates and keeps your agreement current — so even if this page hasn’t been updated, your lease is. This is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.”
Everything Your Pennsylvania Residential Rental Lease Needs
State-Specific Rental Lease Agreement
Built for Pennsylvania law — all required clauses, disclosures, and landlord-tenant rules included out of the box.
E-Sign Any Document
Secure Document Storage
Legal Support When You Need It
Rocket Lawyer attorneys available for questions specific to your Pennsylvania rental situation.
Pennsylvania Landlord Rental Disclosure Requirements
Landlord & Tenant Rental Lease Process
[01] Build Your Lease
Answer a few questions about your Pennsylvania property and tenancy terms.
[02] Customize Terms
Add deposit amounts, pet rules, maintenance responsibilities, and more.
[03] Send for Signature
Send to tenants for e-signature. Countersign and it’s legally binding.
[04] Store & Manage
Lease Agreements Built for Independent Landlords & Real Estate Professionals
Stay Compliant
Pennsylvania-specific lease keeps you on the right side of state law.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Lease Agreements
While oral leases can be valid for short-term tenancies in Pennsylvania, a written lease is strongly recommended and legally required for most fixed-term agreements.
A written agreement protects both parties and is enforceable in Pennsylvania courts.
2 months’ rent (first year); 1 month’s rent (subsequent years). RentRisk automatically includes the correct security deposit language for PA. in your lease.
Reasonable advance notice required (24 hours is standard practice; no specific statute),. Your RentRisk lease includes the required entry notice language.
Pennsylvania landlords must disclose: Lead paint (pre-1978), landlord name and address, move-in inspection checklist (if a deposit is collected). RentRisk includes all required Pennsylvania disclosures automatically.
Technically yes, but it’s risky. Generic leases often miss Pennsylvania -specific required disclosures and terms. Using a state-specific lease — like those created through RentRisk — ensures you’re covered under Pennsylvania law.