State rules
Pennsylvania Security Deposit Rules
Landlord obligations under 68 P.S. §§ 250.511a-250.512
Deposit limit
2 months' rent
2 months' rent in year 1, dropping to 1 month from year 2 onward (renewals included)
How the deposit limit varies
| Scenario | Maximum deposit | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 2 months' rent | — |
| Year 2 and later | 1 month's rent | second and subsequent years of the lease, including any renewal of the original lease — anchored to continuous tenancy from inception, not reset by renewal (§250.511a(b)) |
- After 5 years of continuous tenancy the deposit is frozen — a rent increase does not permit a deposit increase (§250.511a(d)).
- Non-waivable (§250.511a(f)); residential only (§250.511a(e)).
Source: 68 P.S. § 250.511a (tiered by lease year), for the figures shown above. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a Pennsylvania attorney for specific guidance.
Deposit limit verified against 68 P.S. § 250.511a (tiered by lease year) as of Jul 24, 2026.