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Pennsylvania security deposit law

Read from the statute itself on 2026-11-09. Statewide rule; a city or county can add its own.

Maximum deposit
Depends — see the rule
Return deadline
30 days
Interest
Required in some cases

First year: max two months' rent; second and later years: max one month, excess returned. Deposits over $100 held more than 2 years earn interest, paid annually minus a 1%/yr fee; after 5+ years a rent increase cannot raise it. A written damages list is due within thirty days after the lease ends.

Source: 68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512 · read on 2026-11-09

Calculate it for your rent

The cap depends on your situation
First year: max two months' rent; second and later years: max one month, excess returned. Deposits over $100 held more than 2 years earn interest, paid annually minus a 1%/yr fee; after 5+ years a rent increase cannot raise it. A written damages list is due within thirty days after the lease ends.
Return deadline
30 days
Within 30 days after the lease ends or the unit is surrendered, whichever comes first: a written list of damages and the balance. Missing it can cost double the amount wrongfully withheld.
Interest required
Yes
In some situations — see the note
Source: 68 P.S. §§ 250.511a, 250.511b, 250.512 · read on 2026-11-09

Pennsylvania: common questions

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Pennsylvania?

First year: max two months' rent; second and later years: max one month, excess returned. Deposits over $100 held more than 2 years earn interest, paid annually minus a 1%/yr fee; after 5+ years a rent increase cannot raise it. A written damages list is due within thirty days after the lease ends.

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

30 days. Within 30 days after the lease ends or the unit is surrendered, whichever comes first: a written list of damages and the balance. Missing it can cost double the amount wrongfully withheld.

Not legal advice. Confirm with a local landlord-tenant attorney before relying on a figure.

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