Pennsylvania· Answer
What is the penalty for not returning a deposit in Pennsylvania?
Short answer
Up to 2x the deposit plus attorney fees if the landlord fails to return within 30 days without good cause, per 68 P.S. 250.512. The penalty is in addition to the wrongfully withheld deposit itself. Pennsylvania courts routinely hear deposit disputes in small-claims court, where landlords who missed the 30-day deadline without written explanation face a presumption of bad faith.
Source: 68 P.S. 250.512
Honest limits
This is an informational answer based on 68 P.S. 250.512 as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a Pennsylvania-licensed attorney.
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