Being a landlord is a significant responsibility that involves many legal and moral obligations. In Pennsylvania, landlords have several duties to their tenants. These responsibilities are outlined in various state and federal laws, which protect the rights of renters and ensure that landlords fulfill their obligations.

In this article, we will discuss the landlord's responsibilities according to Pennsylvania laws, including their obligations related to maintaining the property, providing habitable living conditions, and respecting tenants' rights.

Property Maintenance

One of the primary responsibilities of landlords in Pennsylvania is to maintain their properties in good condition. This includes making necessary repairs and ensuring that the property is safe and habitable for tenants. The landlord must ensure that the property meets all applicable building and housing codes, as well as any other regulations related to health and safety.

Landlords must also maintain the property's common areas, such as hallways, stairways, and entryways. They are responsible for keeping these areas clean and free of hazards.

To ensure that the property is maintained correctly, landlords must perform regular inspections and make necessary repairs promptly. Tenants have the right to request repairs and maintenance, and landlords must respond promptly to these requests.

Habitable Living Conditions

Another critical responsibility of landlords in Pennsylvania is to provide their tenants with habitable living conditions. This means that the property must be safe, clean, and fit for human habitation. The landlord must provide essential utilities such as water, heat, and electricity, as well as adequate sanitation facilities.

Additionally, the landlord must provide working smoke detectors on every level of the property, and carbon monoxide detectors if the property has any gas-fired appliances or attached garages.

Tenants have the right to expect that their living conditions are safe and healthy. If the landlord fails to maintain the property adequately, the tenant has the right to withhold rent until repairs are made, or they can move out without penalty.

Tenant Rights

Landlords in Pennsylvania must also respect their tenants' rights. This includes providing tenants with privacy and respecting their personal property. The landlord cannot enter the rental unit without proper notice or without the tenant's consent, except in emergency situations.

Tenants have the right to a written lease agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy. The lease agreement must include the rent amount, payment due dates, and the length of the lease. The landlord cannot change the terms of the lease during the tenancy unless the tenant agrees to the changes.

If a landlord wants to terminate a tenancy, they must provide proper notice according to Pennsylvania law. For a month-to-month tenancy, the landlord must provide at least 30 days notice before the next rental period. For a yearly lease, the landlord must provide the proper notice outlined in the lease. If there is no notice requirement, then the state statute applies.

Additionally, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, religion, national origin, or disability. They must also comply with fair housing laws, which prohibit discrimination in rental practices.

If you have questions about your responsibilities as a Pennsylvania landlord or are looking for a team to take over management, reach out to Jennifer today!

This article should not be considered legal advice. You should contact your attorney for legal advice.