ReclaimDepositPennsylvania Security Deposit Laws (2026)
Key rules for deadlines, penalties, and documentation requirements, with direct links to the official statute.
Deadline
30 days
30 days after termination of lease and delivery of possession
Penalty
2x
2x deposit amount for wrongful failure to return
Small claims limit
$12,000
Magisterial District Court
Requirements
Move-in checklistRequired
Pre move-out inspectionNot required
Certified mailRequired
Forwarding addressNot required
Notes
- Deposit limit: 2 months' rent first year, 1 month thereafter
- Escrow required for deposits over $100 held more than 2 years
- Interest must be paid on escrowed deposits (less 1% admin fee)
- Written list of damages must be sent by certified or registered mail
- Automatic 2x penalty for failure to return within 30 days
Citations
Quick references pulled from our shared state law dataset. Always verify against the official statute.
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.512(a) - Landlord must return deposit within 30 days with itemized list
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.512(a) - Landlord must provide written list of damages
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.512 - Cannot deduct for normal wear and deterioration
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.512(c) - Failure to return within 30 days = 2x deposit penalty
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.511a - Deposits over $100 must be held in escrow after 2 years
- 68 Pa.C.S. § 250.511a - First year: 2 months; after first year: 1 month max
Next steps
Use free tools to estimate your deadline and prepare a demand letter.