Pennsylvania allows two months in year one, one month thereafter. Refund and itemized damages due within 30 days. Interest and escrow rules apply conditionally — verify §250.511b for full coverage.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
2
months' rent
Return deadline
30
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
Yes
paid to tenant
Separate account
Required
Maximum Security Deposit
2 months's rent
First year: two months. Second and subsequent years: one month.
Return Deadline
30 days
After the earlier of lease termination or surrender/acceptance; itemized damages and balance together.
Interest on Deposit
Required
Conditional: 68 P.S. §250.511b establishes interest/escrow for funds over $100; applicability after second anniversary; 1% administrative allowance.
Separate Account Required
Required
Conditional: escrow/bond alternatives and amount conditions need full review of §250.511b and §250.511c.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Tenant damage; default in rent; full statutory treatment requires review.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Pennsylvania statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law limits security deposits to 2 months's rent. First year: two months. Second and subsequent years: one month.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 30 days after the tenancy ends. After the earlier of lease termination or surrender/acceptance; itemized damages and balance together.
Does Pennsylvania require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Conditional: 68 P.S. §250.511b establishes interest/escrow for funds over $100; applicability after second anniversary; 1% administrative allowance.
Must Pennsylvania landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires landlords to hold security deposits in a separate account. Conditional: escrow/bond alternatives and amount conditions need full review of §250.511b and §250.511c.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Pennsylvania deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania before making decisions. Official source: https://www.legis.state.pa.us/wu01/li/li/us/pdf/1951/0/0020..pdf. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.