Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
Illegal Lock-Outs – Know Your Rights
In response to the Coronavirus emergency, many courts are closed and no evictions are being processed at this time. As a result, landlords may attempt to remove tenants illegally for nonpayment of rent or other reasons.
Utility Assistance for those Affected by the Corona Virus
The Pennsylvania Utility Law Project provides utility assistance information for renters and homeowners in Pennsylvania affected by COVID-19.
Utility Shutoffs are Coming Soon. Do These Things to Prevent Your Utilities from Being Shut Off!
The Pennsylvania ban on utility shutoffs due to COVID-19 was recently updated, meaning some utility customers may start getting shutoff notices. However, many low-income customers should be protected from utility shutoffs as long as they follow certain steps.
Utility Shutoffs & Help During COVID-19
Information on your rights under new COVID-19 rules for electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, telecommunication & steam utilities.
Illegal Lock-Outs – Know Your Rights
In response to the Coronavirus emergency, many courts are closed and no evictions are being processed at this time. As a result, landlords may attempt to remove tenants illegally for nonpayment of rent or other reasons.
Information for Philadelphia Homeowners during the Coronavirus Pandemic
Resources and information for homeowners in Philadelphia.
Information for PHILADELPHIA RENTERS During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Resources and information for renters in Philadelphia relating to COVID-19.
Tenant Rights of Domestic Violence Survivors During COVID-19
The current COVID-19 epidemic has created a public health crisis, including increased reports of the incidence of domestic violence in the midst of shelter-in-place orders. This advocate resource provides a brief overview of the housing rights of survivors in the context of COVID-19.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 included funding for states to establish Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP). ERAP is now taking applications. ERAP helps tenant households with paying rent, past-due rent balances (also known as arrears), utility and home energy costs, utility and home energy cost arrears, and other expenses related to housing.
Mortgage and Housing Assistance during the Coronavirus National Emergency
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have partnered to launch a new mortgage and housing assistance website to help homeowners and renters during the coronavirus pandemic. The page provides information on what to do now, and what your options are for mortgage and rent payment relief.
Protections for renters
If you’re having trouble making rent payments as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, you are not alone. Here are some steps renters can take, as well as many significant protections from eviction that apply in certain situations.
CFPB Releases Online Tool to Help Renters and Landlords Access Federal Assistance
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has released a new online tool to help renters and landlords impacted by the pandemic easily find and apply for payment assistance for rent, utilities and other expenses.
CARES Act Mortgage Forbearance: What You Need to Know (Video)
If you are experiencing difficulty making on-time mortgage payments due to the national coronavirus emergency, forbearance may be an option for you. Learn more in this video from the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
National Eviction Moratorium: FAQ for Renters
Frequently asked questions and answers about the coverage and effect of the eviction moratorium enacted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Overview of National Eviction Moratorium
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) took unprecedented action on September 1 by issuing a temporary national moratorium on most evictions for nonpayment of rent to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. This provides an overview of that moratorium.