Pennsylvania security deposit law
Return deadline
30 days
Small claims limit
$12,000 (magisterial district court)
What you need to know
- • Deposit + itemized damage list due within 30 days of move-out.
- • Provide your forwarding address in writing — failing to do so weakens the double-damages remedy.
- • No itemized list in 30 days → landlord owes double the deposit.
Itemization: Itemized list of damages required within 30 days; you must provide a forwarding address in writing.
Interest: Interest owed starting the third year of tenancy (deposits over $100 in escrow).
Deposit cap: Capped at 2 months’ rent in year one, 1 month after.
If they wrongfully withhold: No list within 30 days: landlord owes double the deposit and loses the right to sue for damages.
Statute: 68 P.S. §§ 250.511a–.512
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and details vary by city and situation — verify current law or consult a local attorney or tenant’s rights organization before acting.