This section of PALawHelp.org has information and resources about issues relating to Tenants Rights
in Pennsylvania.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
A Tenant's Guide to Renting
This handbook from Neighborhood Legal Services Association is designed to address some common problems that you may face as a tenant. It addresses a number issues including Searching for a rental unit; Reviewing and signing your lease; Moving into your new rental unit; Living in your rental unit; and Moving out. [PDF] (2010)
Can my landlord increase my rent?
Information from PhillyTenant.org on rental increases and your rights in Philadelphia County. This article contains: (1) Can my landlord increase my rent? (2) When can my landlord increase my rent? (3) Can I negotiate a rent increase? (4) My rent is subsidized. Can my landlord increase my rent?
Common Landlord-Tenant Myths (Video)
This video, Common Landlord-Tenant Myths, provides information on most of the problems arising during the tenancy, including written versus oral leases, eviction notices, illegal self-help evictions, security deposits, and warranty of habitability. (2012)
Consumer Guide to Tenant and Landlord Rights
The Bureau of Consumer Protection, the Civil Rights Enforcement Section, and the Impact Litigation Division of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General offers this Consumer Guide to Tenant and Landlord Rights in Pennsylvania. The Guide provides an overview of the state and federal legal requirements that govern the landlord-tenant relationship, as well as best practices when renting a place to live. The Guide informs you about what to look for when applying to rent and reviewing a lease, what to expect while renting, and what to anticipate when a lease ends. (2025)
Illegal Lockouts in Philadelphia County
Flyer on illegal lockouts and the legal eviction process in Philadelphia County from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. (June 2016)
Illegal Lockouts (Video)
This video from Neighborhood Legal Services Association explains tenants' rights under the law in Pennsylvania that offer protection against self-help evictions when the landlord changes the locks or renders the property unusable without following the property eviction procedures. October 22, 2010.
Know Your Rights as a Renter in Pennsylvania
This website from the Home Equality Center of Pennsylvania will help to guide you through a successful renting experience by providing general information and self-help resources regarding state and federal Fair Housing laws and Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Law as it pertains to the rental of private residential property.
Landlord’s Interference With a Tenant’s Right to Utility Service
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on a Tenant's rights regarding utility service in a rented residence. This includes who is responsible for paying the gas, electric, and/or water and sewer bills; what is included in the rent and what is not; and does utility service need to be put in the tenant's name or will the landlord put it in their name. [PDF] (June 2011)
Landlord Tenant Handbook
Detailed information about renting a residence from North Penn Legal Services (NPLS). Fair housing (housing discrimination) information is included throughout the entire handbook. There is a Lehigh Valley Edition and a Northeast PA Edition. NPLS updated the Landlord-Tenant Handbook in July 2025.
Manufactured Home Community Rights
Information from Northwestern Legal Services on Manufactured Home Community Rights, including eviction procedures, reasonable park rules and regulations, requirements relating to rent and fees.
PA Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older. This webpage from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue explains who is eligible for the rebate program and how to apply.
Philadelphia Eviction Diversion Program
The City of Philadelphia offers a FREE Eviction Diversion Program (EDP). The Program provides resources for landlords and tenants in residential rental properties to resolve issues while avoiding a costly or drawn-out court process. Per City Ordinance # 220655, landlord good faith participation in EDP is required before seeking a legal eviction through court. Resources may include mediation and funding that covers tenant’s rent arrears.
Renting an Apartment (Video)
This "Renting an Apartment" video from North Penn Legal Services addresses many practical issues tenants and landlords should consider before entering into a lease agreement. Of particular interest to landlords is an extensive panel discussion on discriminatory advertising and rental practices. The format includes vignettes and a panel discussion. The video was originally produced by Susquehanna Legal Services which later became part of North Penn Legal Services. (24 minutes) (2011)
Repairs to a Rental Unit - Landlord's Duty To Make Repairs
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on a landlord's legal duty to repair rental property. The Landlord has a duty to provide their tenant with housing that is safe, sanitary, and secure. However, your landlord has no duty to repair damages caused by you or your guests or to make improvements, such as painting the walls or replacing faded carpet, unless he or she specifically agreed to do so.
Security Deposits
Information from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network on tenants' rights relating to security deposits. When you rent a house, apartment, or mobile home, you usually have to pay a security deposit to your landlord to cover possible damage to the premises or rent still owing when you move. This pamphlet describes your rights under a Pennsylvania law that limits how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit and states when and how the deposit should be returned to you, the tenant. The information in this brochure applies only to residential leases.
Security Deposits (Video)
Many tenants do not receive their security deposits back from the landlords when they move out of the property. Find out what type of notice you need to give your landlord and what to do if your landlord does not give your deposit back.
Tenant Background Checks and Your Rights
This resource, compiled jointly by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Housing & Urban Development, and the Department of Justice explains what a tenant background check is, how consumers can dispute errors, and what rights consumers have under the law. Understanding this process can help you protect yourself and take action if you are denied rental housing or face other housing challenges because of errors in your tenant screening report
Tenants! Being Evicted?
Information from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network on the rights of tenants who are being evicted. Knowing and using your rights as a tenant might be the difference between keeping or losing your home. The information provided here can help you understand your rights.
Tenants Rights
This link will direct you to Summit Legal Aid, formerly Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid. It offers information on the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Tenants Rights and Protections Against Utility Shut-Offs (Video)
The information in this video discussing tenants' rights and protections against utility shutoffs was developed using materials produced by The Pennsylvania Utility Law Project (PULP).
The Right of Quiet Enjoyment
Pennsylvania law says that every lease (whether verbal and written) contains a promise that the landlord will not unreasonably interfere with your right to possess the leased premises. This information from Neighborhood Legal Services explains a tenant's right to quiet enjoyment.
What To Know BEFORE You Rent (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, offers information for people who are planning to rent a home or apartment. It includes an explanation of what a lease agreement generally covers and some common issues related to renting. Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Notice to Vacate - What Kind of Notice to Vacate Is Required for Residential Leases under Pennsylvania Law?
How long do you have to move when you are being evicted? Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on notice requirements in eviction.
Appealing a Landlord/Tenant Judgment for Possession Pro Se
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on how to file an Appeal to the Court of Common Pleas without the assistance of an attorney if the Magisterial District Judge rules against you in a lawsuit filed by your landlord. (June 2011)
Illegal Lockouts in Philadelphia County
Flyer on illegal lockouts and the legal eviction process in Philadelphia County from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. (June 2016)
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Tenant Landlord Digital Assistant (T/LDA) [Philadelphia Municipal Court - ONLY]
T/LDA (pronounced "Tilda") is a digital guide dog to walk you through a Landlord-Tenant case for non-payment of rent in the Philadelphia Municipal Court, one step at a time. T/LDA will: 1. Ask you questions about your situation; 2. Give you information about the court process and your options based on your answers; and 3. Direct you to other resources that can help. PLEASE NOTE: T/LDA is not a person or a lawyer and T/LDA does not give legal advice.
PAHousingSearch.com
This is a free resource from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and other Commonwealth partners to help you find a home that fits your needs and budget. Property providers can list available apartments or homes at any time, which means the listings are current. The web site lets you define what you want in your next living space, and then it does all the research – presenting you with the relevant housing vacancies that best fit your parameters in the community where you want to live.
Appealing a Landlord/Tenant Judgment for Possession Pro Se
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on how to file an Appeal to the Court of Common Pleas without the assistance of an attorney if the Magisterial District Judge rules against you in a lawsuit filed by your landlord. (June 2011)
A Tenant's Guide to Renting
This handbook from Neighborhood Legal Services Association is designed to address some common problems that you may face as a tenant. It addresses a number issues including Searching for a rental unit; Reviewing and signing your lease; Moving into your new rental unit; Living in your rental unit; and Moving out. [PDF] (2010)
Common Landlord-Tenant Myths (Video)
This video, Common Landlord-Tenant Myths, provides information on most of the problems arising during the tenancy, including written versus oral leases, eviction notices, illegal self-help evictions, security deposits, and warranty of habitability. (2012)
Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment
Information from Northwestern Legal Services for tenants about your right to quiet enjoyment of your premises.
Defending An Action in Magisterial District Judge Court
Questions and Answers about defending an action in Magisterial District Court. (2018)
Housing Code Fact Sheet
Fact Sheet from MidPenn Legal Services outlining various house code issues and tenants rights. (May 2010)
Housing Rights for Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence in Philadelphia County
Flyer describing the housing rights of victims of domestic and sexual violence under local Philadelphia law.
How to Get Your Landlord to Make Repairs (Video)
Video from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, in conjunction with the Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project, offering information on how to get your landlord to make necessary repairs to your rental property.
How to Keep Someone off Your Property
Information from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network about keeping people off your property and the law relating to defiant trespass.
Illegal Lockouts in Philadelphia County
Flyer on illegal lockouts and the legal eviction process in Philadelphia County from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. (June 2016)
Illegal Lockouts (Video)
This video from Neighborhood Legal Services Association explains tenants' rights under the law in Pennsylvania that offer protection against self-help evictions when the landlord changes the locks or renders the property unusable without following the property eviction procedures. October 22, 2010.
Landlord’s Interference With a Tenant’s Right to Utility Service
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on a Tenant's rights regarding utility service in a rented residence. This includes who is responsible for paying the gas, electric, and/or water and sewer bills; what is included in the rent and what is not; and does utility service need to be put in the tenant's name or will the landlord put it in their name. [PDF] (June 2011)
Landlord Tenant Handbook
Detailed information about renting a residence from North Penn Legal Services (NPLS). Fair housing (housing discrimination) information is included throughout the entire handbook. There is a Lehigh Valley Edition and a Northeast PA Edition. NPLS updated the Landlord-Tenant Handbook in July 2025.
Left Behind Items? How to Get Back Your Belongings After Being Evicted or Moving Out
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services about your rights regarding property that is left behind after you are evicted or move out of a rental property.
Magisterial District Judge Court - Defense
This informational packet from Northwestern Legal Services provides information when defending an action filed with the Magisterial District Judge Court.
Manufactured Home Community Rights
Information from Northwestern Legal Services on Manufactured Home Community Rights, including eviction procedures, reasonable park rules and regulations, requirements relating to rent and fees.
Moving Before Your Lease Is Up?
Information about your rights and obligations, and your landlord's rights and opbligations when you move out before your lease is up. (June 2010)
Notice to Vacate - What Kind of Notice to Vacate Is Required for Residential Leases under Pennsylvania Law?
How long do you have to move when you are being evicted? Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on notice requirements in eviction.
PhillyTenant.Org
PhillyTenant.Org is your resource for tenant rights in Philadelphia. PhillyTenant.org is the product of a collaboration of legal services and advocacy organizations in Philadelphia including: AIDS Law Project; Community Legal Services; Dechert LLP; HELP: MLP; Landlord/Tenant Legal Help Center @ Municipal Court; Legal Clinic for the Disabled; Legal Help Center; Philadelphia Legal Assistance; Philly VIP; Regional Housing Legal Services; SeniorLAW Center; and Tenant Union Representative Network. The information provided on PhillyTenant.org is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For legal advice or representation, tenants should seek legal help.
Renters: Is Your Landlord Being Foreclosed?
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on your rights if your landlord is facing foreclosure of the property you are living in. (May 2011)
Renting an Apartment (Video)
This "Renting an Apartment" video from North Penn Legal Services addresses many practical issues tenants and landlords should consider before entering into a lease agreement. Of particular interest to landlords is an extensive panel discussion on discriminatory advertising and rental practices. The format includes vignettes and a panel discussion. The video was originally produced by Susquehanna Legal Services which later became part of North Penn Legal Services. (24 minutes) (2011)
Repair & Deduct - Tenant's Right to a Safe and Decent Home
Informational guide from MidPenn Legal Services for tenants which explains their right to a safe and decent home and the right to deduct the cost of necessary repairs from future rents if the landlord fails to make repairs. June 2010.
Repairs to a Rental Unit - Landlord's Duty To Make Repairs
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on a landlord's legal duty to repair rental property. The Landlord has a duty to provide their tenant with housing that is safe, sanitary, and secure. However, your landlord has no duty to repair damages caused by you or your guests or to make improvements, such as painting the walls or replacing faded carpet, unless he or she specifically agreed to do so.
Security Deposits
Information for tenants from Northwestern Legal Services on the amount of security deposits, how to obtain the return of your deposit, the landlord's obligations, and what to do if the landlord refuses to return the deposit.
Security Deposits
Information from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network on tenants' rights relating to security deposits. When you rent a house, apartment, or mobile home, you usually have to pay a security deposit to your landlord to cover possible damage to the premises or rent still owing when you move. This pamphlet describes your rights under a Pennsylvania law that limits how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit and states when and how the deposit should be returned to you, the tenant. The information in this brochure applies only to residential leases.
Security Deposits (Video)
Many tenants do not receive their security deposits back from the landlords when they move out of the property. Find out what type of notice you need to give your landlord and what to do if your landlord does not give your deposit back.
Tenants! Being Evicted?
Information from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network on the rights of tenants who are being evicted. Knowing and using your rights as a tenant might be the difference between keeping or losing your home. The information provided here can help you understand your rights.
Tenants Rights
This link will direct you to Summit Legal Aid, formerly Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid. It offers information on the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Tenants Rights and Protections Against Utility Shut-Offs (Video)
The information in this video discussing tenants' rights and protections against utility shutoffs was developed using materials produced by The Pennsylvania Utility Law Project (PULP).
Tenants' Rights in Boarding Houses, Hotels and Motels
Information from MidPenn Legal Services about the rights of people who are living in boarding houses, hotels and motels. A person residing in one of these places may be considered to be a ""tenant" under certain circumstances giving them greater rights under the law.
Tenants' Rights in Dealing with Bed Bugs
Information from North Penn Legal Services on Tenants' rights in dealing with a bed bug problem. Bed bugs are tiny wingless insects that survive solely on the blood of warm blooded animals. The number of bed bug infestations has risen dramatically. This provides information on legal and practical options for dealing with the problem. [PDF] (February 2014)
The Right of Quiet Enjoyment
Pennsylvania law says that every lease (whether verbal and written) contains a promise that the landlord will not unreasonably interfere with your right to possess the leased premises. This information from Neighborhood Legal Services explains a tenant's right to quiet enjoyment.
Tips for Moving out and for Getting the Security Deposit Back
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on the steps you should take in recovering your security deposit.
Utilities Termination Issues
Information from MidPenn Legal Services outlining your consumer rights regarding utility terminations. (2010)
What To Know BEFORE You Rent (Video)
This video from Summit Legal Aid, formerly Laurel Legal Services, offers information for people who are planning to rent a home or apartment. It includes an explanation of what a lease agreement generally covers and some common issues related to renting. Summit Legal Aid was formed when Southwestern Pennsylvania Legal Aid and Laurel Legal Services merged into a single legal aid program on July 1, 2023.
Your Right as a Tenant to a Decent Home
This brochure from the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network describes the right of a tenant to a safe and sanitary home. When you rent a home, Pennsylvania law says that it must be a decent place to live. This right to a safe and sanitary home comes from a decision of the state Supreme Court. The court called this right the implied warranty of habitability. Your landlord is not required to provide you with a perfect place to live. But the landlord must make repairs necessary to keep your home in a safe, sanitary, and healthy condition, provided that you did not cause the damage and provided you are current on your rent when the problems develop.
Residential Tenant Rights
Information on rights of tenants from the Erie County Bar Association. Before you agree to rent, make sure you examine the house or apartment completely. Do not depend on the landlord to tell you about any defects in the property. If there is a written lease, read the lease carefully before you sign it. (August 2018)
Starting a Lawsuit
Information from the Erie County Bar Association about filing a lawsuit. Many factors must be considered before a decision is made to file a suit. The importance of the matter involved must be compared with the time, effort and expense required to assert your claim. (February 2018)
What To Do If You Are Arrested
Being placed under arrest does not always mean that you have been placed in handcuffs or taken to jail. Rather, an “arrest” is any action by law enforcement that indicates an intent to take you into custody or that restricts your movement to a degree that a reasonable person would not feel free to leave the scene. Should you be arrested, you have many rights which you may want to exercise. This provides information from the Erie County Bar Association concerning your rights and what to do when arrested. (2018)
PhillyTenant.Org
PhillyTenant.Org is your resource for tenant rights in Philadelphia. PhillyTenant.org is the product of a collaboration of legal services and advocacy organizations in Philadelphia including: AIDS Law Project; Community Legal Services; Dechert LLP; HELP: MLP; Landlord/Tenant Legal Help Center @ Municipal Court; Legal Clinic for the Disabled; Legal Help Center; Philadelphia Legal Assistance; Philly VIP; Regional Housing Legal Services; SeniorLAW Center; and Tenant Union Representative Network. The information provided on PhillyTenant.org is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For legal advice or representation, tenants should seek legal help.
Consumer Guide to Tenant and Landlord Rights
The Bureau of Consumer Protection, the Civil Rights Enforcement Section, and the Impact Litigation Division of the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General offers this Consumer Guide to Tenant and Landlord Rights in Pennsylvania. The Guide provides an overview of the state and federal legal requirements that govern the landlord-tenant relationship, as well as best practices when renting a place to live. The Guide informs you about what to look for when applying to rent and reviewing a lease, what to expect while renting, and what to anticipate when a lease ends. (2025)
Housing & Shelter - Housing Navigator Unit (Allegheny County)
This website from the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) allows you to search for a safe place to sleep, get help finding housing or staying in your home. The DHS Housing Navigator Unit was established in 2018 to help homeless persons served by DHS find and maintain safe, affordable housing in the private market. The Housing Navigator Unit works toward this goal by recruiting and supporting landlords in the private market who rent to DHS tenants. The unit also works with the agencies charged with providing support services to the tenants to help people trying to maintain their housing.
PAHousingSearch.com
This is a free resource from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and other Commonwealth partners to help you find a home that fits your needs and budget. Property providers can list available apartments or homes at any time, which means the listings are current. The web site lets you define what you want in your next living space, and then it does all the research – presenting you with the relevant housing vacancies that best fit your parameters in the community where you want to live.
PA Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program
The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older. This webpage from the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue explains who is eligible for the rebate program and how to apply.
Philadelphia Eviction Diversion Program
The City of Philadelphia offers a FREE Eviction Diversion Program (EDP). The Program provides resources for landlords and tenants in residential rental properties to resolve issues while avoiding a costly or drawn-out court process. Per City Ordinance # 220655, landlord good faith participation in EDP is required before seeking a legal eviction through court. Resources may include mediation and funding that covers tenant’s rent arrears.
Resident Rights and Responsibilities
A brochure for tenants living in federal housing from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This brochure does not apply to the Public Housing Program, the Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Program (except for multifamily housing projects that are insured by HUD), and the Housing Choice Voucher Program (except when a voucher is used in a multifamily housing project with a HUD-insured mortgage). (PDF)
Tenant Background Checks and Your Rights
This resource, compiled jointly by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Housing & Urban Development, and the Department of Justice explains what a tenant background check is, how consumers can dispute errors, and what rights consumers have under the law. Understanding this process can help you protect yourself and take action if you are denied rental housing or face other housing challenges because of errors in your tenant screening report
Tenant Landlord Digital Assistant (T/LDA) [Philadelphia Municipal Court - ONLY]
T/LDA (pronounced "Tilda") is a digital guide dog to walk you through a Landlord-Tenant case for non-payment of rent in the Philadelphia Municipal Court, one step at a time. T/LDA will: 1. Ask you questions about your situation; 2. Give you information about the court process and your options based on your answers; and 3. Direct you to other resources that can help. PLEASE NOTE: T/LDA is not a person or a lawyer and T/LDA does not give legal advice.
What should I do if the house or apartment I’m renting goes into foreclosure?
If your landlord stops paying the mortgage, foreclosure proceedings may begin. Some state and local laws may offer protections for renters in the foreclosure process. This provides information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on what to do if your landlord defaults on the mortgage to your residence and it goes into foreclosure. (Feb. 2024)
Can my landlord increase my rent?
Information from PhillyTenant.org on rental increases and your rights in Philadelphia County. This article contains: (1) Can my landlord increase my rent? (2) When can my landlord increase my rent? (3) Can I negotiate a rent increase? (4) My rent is subsidized. Can my landlord increase my rent?
Know Your Rights as a Renter in Pennsylvania
This website from the Home Equality Center of Pennsylvania will help to guide you through a successful renting experience by providing general information and self-help resources regarding state and federal Fair Housing laws and Pennsylvania Landlord Tenant Law as it pertains to the rental of private residential property.
PhillyTenant.Org
PhillyTenant.Org is your resource for tenant rights in Philadelphia. PhillyTenant.org is the product of a collaboration of legal services and advocacy organizations in Philadelphia including: AIDS Law Project; Community Legal Services; Dechert LLP; HELP: MLP; Landlord/Tenant Legal Help Center @ Municipal Court; Legal Clinic for the Disabled; Legal Help Center; Philadelphia Legal Assistance; Philly VIP; Regional Housing Legal Services; SeniorLAW Center; and Tenant Union Representative Network. The information provided on PhillyTenant.org is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For legal advice or representation, tenants should seek legal help.
Carbon Self Service Center - Forms
Download forms and information from the Carbon County Court of Common Pleas
Housing & Shelter - Housing Navigator Unit (Allegheny County)
This website from the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) allows you to search for a safe place to sleep, get help finding housing or staying in your home. The DHS Housing Navigator Unit was established in 2018 to help homeless persons served by DHS find and maintain safe, affordable housing in the private market. The Housing Navigator Unit works toward this goal by recruiting and supporting landlords in the private market who rent to DHS tenants. The unit also works with the agencies charged with providing support services to the tenants to help people trying to maintain their housing.
Legal Assistance Program for Tenants and Homeowners in Pittsburgh
The Legal Assistance Program (LAP) of the Urban Development Program of Pittsburgh provides a variety of free housing legal services to eligible tenants and homeowners who live in the City of Pittsburgh. Income limits apply for services.
Residential Tenant Rights
Information on rights of tenants from the Erie County Bar Association. Before you agree to rent, make sure you examine the house or apartment completely. Do not depend on the landlord to tell you about any defects in the property. If there is a written lease, read the lease carefully before you sign it. (August 2018)
Starting a Lawsuit
Information from the Erie County Bar Association about filing a lawsuit. Many factors must be considered before a decision is made to file a suit. The importance of the matter involved must be compared with the time, effort and expense required to assert your claim. (February 2018)
Illegal Lockouts in Philadelphia County
Flyer on illegal lockouts and the legal eviction process in Philadelphia County from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. (June 2016)
Philadelphia Eviction Diversion Program
The City of Philadelphia offers a FREE Eviction Diversion Program (EDP). The Program provides resources for landlords and tenants in residential rental properties to resolve issues while avoiding a costly or drawn-out court process. Per City Ordinance # 220655, landlord good faith participation in EDP is required before seeking a legal eviction through court. Resources may include mediation and funding that covers tenant’s rent arrears.
PhillyTenant.Org
PhillyTenant.Org is your resource for tenant rights in Philadelphia. PhillyTenant.org is the product of a collaboration of legal services and advocacy organizations in Philadelphia including: AIDS Law Project; Community Legal Services; Dechert LLP; HELP: MLP; Landlord/Tenant Legal Help Center @ Municipal Court; Legal Clinic for the Disabled; Legal Help Center; Philadelphia Legal Assistance; Philly VIP; Regional Housing Legal Services; SeniorLAW Center; and Tenant Union Representative Network. The information provided on PhillyTenant.org is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For legal advice or representation, tenants should seek legal help.
Tenant Landlord Digital Assistant (T/LDA) [Philadelphia Municipal Court - ONLY]
T/LDA (pronounced "Tilda") is a digital guide dog to walk you through a Landlord-Tenant case for non-payment of rent in the Philadelphia Municipal Court, one step at a time. T/LDA will: 1. Ask you questions about your situation; 2. Give you information about the court process and your options based on your answers; and 3. Direct you to other resources that can help. PLEASE NOTE: T/LDA is not a person or a lawyer and T/LDA does not give legal advice.