Are there any laws governing the use of tenants' security deposits?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, there are laws governing the use of tenants’ security deposits. Under the Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, tenants have certain rights when it comes to the use of their security deposits. The Act requires that all landlords must hold security deposits in an escrow account and must keep them separate from their own personal funds. Additionally, landlords must provide tenants with written notice of the escrow account and the amount of money held in the account. It is the landlord’s responsibility to return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 days of the termination of the lease agreement. If a landlord fails to do so, then the tenant can file a claim in the court of common pleas and may be awarded damages. Additionally, landlords must provide written documentation that outlines how and why the security deposit was used. They are also prohibited from using the security deposit for any purpose other than for normal wear and tear, damages, or unpaid rent. Tenants also have the right to request an inspection of their tenant unit within the two weeks prior to their move-out date. During this inspection, landlords must provide an estimate of the amount that will be deducted from the security deposit. This is an important law for tenants because it holds the landlord accountable for any deductions that are taken from their security deposits.
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