Pennsylvania Deposit return deadline
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Pennsylvania?
Written list of damages plus the remaining deposit (with any unpaid interest) within 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises. Missing the list forfeits the right to withhold.
Verified Source: 68 P.S. § 250.512 (Landlord and Tenant Act § 512) · last checked 2026-10-23
How this works in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania gives you 30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises, whichever comes first, to send a written list of damages along with the rest of the deposit and any unpaid interest. Skipping the list costs you the right to withhold anything.
Worked example for Pennsylvania
Say the tenant surrenders the keys early on July 20, 2026, before the lease ends on July 31, 2026. The earlier date controls, so your list and the balance are due by August 19, 2026. If you send the money without the written damage list, you lose the right to keep any part of it.
Pennsylvania timelines and limits
| Deadline | 30 days after the lease ends or surrender and acceptance, whichever first occurs |
|---|---|
| What to send | Written list of damages, plus the remaining deposit and any unpaid interest |
| Missing the list | Forfeits the right to withhold |
Pennsylvania FAQ
How long does a Pennsylvania landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days after the lease ends or the tenant surrenders the premises, whichever comes first, under 68 P.S. § 250.512.
Do I have to send a list of damages?
Yes. Without the written list, you forfeit the right to withhold.
Is interest included?
The balance goes back with any unpaid interest.
Sources for this section: 68 P.S. § 250.512 (Landlord and Tenant Act § 512) (checked 2026-10-23)
Same topic in neighboring states
All Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law · Pennsylvania landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone) · Move-in checklist
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