Pennsylvania Lease Agreement

Pennsylvania Lease Agreement & Security Deposit Rules

Pennsylvania caps the security deposit at 2 months' rent (year 1), 1 month's rent (thereafter) and requires return within 30 days after move-out.

Security Deposit Cap
2 months' rent (year 1), 1 month's rent (thereafter)
Return Window
30 days

Lease agreement requirements in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania caps the security deposit at 2 months' rent during the first year of a lease, dropping to a maximum of 1 month's rent for the second year and beyond.

Landlords must return the deposit (minus lawful deductions) within 30 days after the lease ends and the tenant vacates.

Deposits of $100 or more held for 2+ years generally must earn interest for the tenant's benefit.

Reference: Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act, 68 P.S. §250.511a. This is general educational information, not legal advice — many cities have their own additional rules. Confirm current Pennsylvania and local requirements.

Pennsylvania key points

  • Deposit cap: 2 months' rent in year 1, 1 month's rent after that.
  • 30 days to return the deposit after lease end and move-out.
  • Interest may be required on larger deposits held 2+ years.

How to create your Pennsylvania lease agreement

  1. 1. Open the iRunDocs lease agreement generator with Pennsylvania selected — deposit rules fill in automatically.
  2. 2. Enter landlord, tenant, property, rent, and term details.
  3. 3. Review the PDF preview, then download your document.
  4. 4. Sign following Pennsylvania's requirements, and keep a copy with your records.
Start the Pennsylvania lease agreement generator

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit in Pennsylvania?

2 months' rent during the first year of the lease, dropping to a maximum of 1 month's rent for subsequent years.

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

30 days after the lease ends and the tenant moves out.

Does Pennsylvania require interest on security deposits?

Deposits of $100 or more held for 2 or more years generally must earn interest for the tenant's benefit.

Lease agreement rules in other states

iRunDocs provides document tools and educational information. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.