Landlord Tools

Pennsylvania Security Deposit Law

What landlords in Pennsylvania need to know about deposit limits, refund deadlines, interest, and penalties for getting it wrong.

Deposit cap

2 months' rent for the first year, 1 month's rent after that

Refund deadline

30 days

Interest required?

Yes

Interest (minus a 1% administrative fee) is required once a deposit has been held for 2+ years.

Separate account?

Yes

Penalty for noncompliance

Bad-faith failure to return can result in up to twice the wrongfully withheld amount.

Statute: 68 Pa. Stat. § 250.512

This page summarizes general state-level rules as of 2026 and does not cover city or county ordinances, which can be stricter. Verify against the statute cited above or with a local attorney before relying on it. See all states.