Renter's Rights in Pennsylvania
Renter's rights in Pennsylvania provide protection for tenants against illegal rental practices and unscrupulous landlords. The laws also empower tenants to report landlords who violate these laws by granting them the power to sue in civil court for damages resulting from landlord negligence or rights violation. It is hoped this will generate a more open living situation where no party has more power than the other.
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Fair Housing
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As a tenant in Pennsylvania and anywhere else in the United States, you have the right to fair housing obtained free from discrimination based on your age, gender, marital status, national origin, skin color, race, disability or religion. It is illegal for a landlord to include any language in a lease agreement that would circumvent these rights. If you feel you have been discriminated against based on that criteria, you may be able to sue your landlord in civil court for damages incurred as the result of his discrimination.
Habitable Dwelling
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It is your right as a tenant to have a habitable dwelling that is structurally sound, adheres to all building code ordinances and has satisfactory utilities like hot and cold running water. It is also your right to request your landlord to make repairs to the property at his own expense when damage to the property brings your standard of living below this minimum requirement. A landlord who refuses to make repairs to his property may be liable for damages incurred by you as a result of his negligence.
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Written Notice of Problems
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In Pennsylvania and other states across the country, you have the right to written notice from your landlord if he intends to conduct legal action against you such as an eviction or if he believes you are violating the terms of your lease agreement. Written notice gives you an opportunity to correct any problem before an actual court proceeding. Without prior written notice of an eviction proceeding against you, such an action may be ruled void in a Pennsylvania court.
Peaceful Living Environment
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You have the right to enjoy your rental dwelling in as peaceful a living environment as possible. This means it is illegal for your landlord to withhold access to your utilities or to your rental property by changing locks. You also have the right to prior notice of landlord entry into your apartment. A landlord who enters your apartment without prior notice may be considered trespassing. Such an action may void your lease agreement, enabling you to move out of the property.
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