Pennsylvania’s rent increase laws remain largely unchanged, with no statewide rent control or rent stabilization measures in place. However, tenants should be aware of the following key points regarding rent increases in Pennsylvania:
No Rent Control
- Pennsylvania has no statewide rent control laws, allowing landlords to raise rent by any amount they choose.
- Local governments are prohibited from enacting their own rent control laws under state law (68 PA Cons. Stat. Ann. §250.511).
Notice Requirements
- Landlords must provide written notice before implementing a rent increase.
- Notice periods vary based on lease type:
- Weekly lease: 7 days’ notice
- Monthly lease: 30 days’ notice
- Quarterly or annual lease: 60 days’ notice
Lease Agreements
- Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless specifically allowed in the lease agreement.
- For month-to-month leases, landlords can raise rent with proper notice.
Tenant Protections
- Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights (e.g., filing complaints or joining tenant unions).
- Rent increases must not be discriminatory based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or disability.
Proposed Legislation
A new bill has been introduced in the Pennsylvania State Senate that, if passed, would significantly change rent increase laws:
- Cap rent increases for current tenants at 10% annually.
- Limit rent increases for new tenants to 15% above the previous tenant’s rate.
- Require 90 days’ written notice for rent increases.
- Exempt small landlords (fewer than 15 units), newly constructed properties (for 10 years), and certain affordable housing units.
This proposed legislation is not yet law and is subject to change or rejection.
Recommendations for Tenants
- Review your lease agreement carefully for rent increase clauses.
- Keep written records of all communications with your landlord.
- Be aware of your rights regarding non-discrimination and retaliation.
- Consider negotiating longer-term leases to lock in rent rates.
- Stay informed about potential legislative changes that may affect rent increase laws.
While Pennsylvania currently allows significant landlord discretion in raising rents, tenants should remain vigilant about their rights and any upcoming changes in legislation that could provide additional protections.
Sources:
- https://6abc.com/rent-in-pennsylvania-rental-rate-protections-pa-legislation-politics/14545976/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-pennsylvania
- https://hapcophiladelphia.com/free-content/proposed-pa-senate-bill-resurrects-prospect-of-rent-control/
- https://rentpost.com/resources/article/raise-rent-laws-in-pennsylvania/
- https://renters.equalhousing.org/application-lease/rent-increases/
