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Pennsylvania security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Pennsylvania, a landlord has 30 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (68 P.S. § 250.512). Under Pennsylvania law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to twice the amount withheld.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

30

days for a Pennsylvania landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

Within 30 days after the tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit or give a written list of damages with the balance.

What the landlord must send you

A written list of damages. Normal wear and tear is not damage.

If the landlord misses the deadline

A landlord who does not provide the written list within 30 days forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit (68 P.S. § 250.512).

Penalty for wrongful withholding

A landlord who fails to pay the balance within 30 days can be liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld (68 P.S. § 250.512).

Your forwarding address

Pennsylvania's double-damages remedy requires that the tenant gave the landlord a forwarding address in writing. The letter includes yours.

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Did the landlord send you a written, itemized list of deductions?

Pennsylvania security deposit FAQ

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

Within 30 days after the tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit or give a written list of damages with the balance.

What must a Pennsylvania landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

A written list of damages. Normal wear and tear is not damage.

What happens if a Pennsylvania landlord misses the deadline?

A landlord who does not provide the written list within 30 days forfeits the right to withhold any part of the deposit (68 P.S. § 250.512).

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Pennsylvania?

A landlord who fails to pay the balance within 30 days can be liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld (68 P.S. § 250.512).

Do I need to give my Pennsylvania landlord a forwarding address?

Pennsylvania's double-damages remedy requires that the tenant gave the landlord a forwarding address in writing. The letter includes yours.

How do I get my security deposit back in Pennsylvania?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 30 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites 68 P.S. § 250.512 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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