Current COVID-19 Eviction Protections for Pennsylvania Renters

The COVID-19 pandemic led to sweeping changes in how evictions are handled across Pennsylvania. While most statewide eviction moratoriums have expired, some renter protections and resources remain as of 2024. Understanding what support is still available—and what steps to take if you face possible eviction—can help protect your housing situation during this challenging time.

What COVID-19 Eviction Protections Are Still in Effect in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania's statewide eviction moratorium, which originally protected renters during the emergency phase of the pandemic, has ended. However, several important protections and support programs remain available for renters facing eviction or financial hardship due to COVID-19. These options focus mainly on rental assistance and ensuring access to legal help, rather than an outright ban on evictions.

Rental Assistance Programs

The official Pennsylvania Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) closed in many counties, but some local programs and aid remain available.

• Contact your county’s Department of Human Services to check for locally available rental and utility assistance.
• These programs can help you pay past due rent or prevent future eviction if you qualify for COVID-related hardship.

Eviction Process and Notification

Though the COVID-driven moratorium ended, the regular Pennsylvania eviction process still applies. Landlords must follow legal notice rules before filing for eviction in court. If you receive a written eviction notice, you are entitled to a formal hearing before the Magisterial District Court.

Important Forms Pennsylvania Renters Should Know

Several official forms and resources are vital for renters navigating eviction risk in Pennsylvania:

• Notice to Quit
  What it is: A written notice your landlord must provide before filing an eviction case, stating why you are being asked to move out and giving you a set time to respond.
  When/how used: If you are receiving a Notice to Quit (often for nonpayment), verify that it includes all required details. This notice is required by law and gives you a final opportunity to remedy the lease violation or move.
  More about Notice to Quit requirements
• Emergency Rental Assistance Application
  What it is: The form used to apply for rental help through ERAP or successor programs.
  When/how used: Submit if you lost income due to COVID-19 and cannot pay rent. Some counties maintain local online forms or printable PDFs. Check your county’s ERAP page for details.

What Happens After an Eviction Filing?

If your landlord files for eviction after the notice period, you will receive a summons for a Magisterial District Court hearing. You have the right to appear, present evidence, and request legal aid. The Magisterial District Court is the state official tribunal for residential tenancies and eviction matters.

Pennsylvania Tenant Rights Legislation

Your rights as a renter are defined under Pennsylvania law, mainly the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951.¹ This law covers notice requirements, rent, maintenance, and more. Some cities—like Philadelphia—have local ordinances offering extra eviction protections.

If You Are Facing Eviction: Steps to Take

Even without a current statewide moratorium, you have clear options if you might lose your rental home.

• Read any Notice to Quit carefully, note the deadline, and act quickly.
• Apply for rental assistance as soon as possible if you qualify.
• If you get a court summons, attend your hearing and consider seeking free legal help (PA Legal Aid).
• Keep records of communication with your landlord, rent receipts, and assistance applications.

FAQs on Ongoing COVID-19 Eviction Protections in Pennsylvania

1. Are there still any COVID-19 eviction bans in Pennsylvania?
   No. There is no general state eviction ban in effect. However, renters can still qualify for some local rental assistance and are always entitled to formal legal notice and court hearings before eviction.
2. What should I do if I get a Notice to Quit?
   Review the notice for accuracy, check the timeline, and contact local legal aid or rental assistance programs quickly. If you correct the issue (like paying overdue rent), your landlord may not continue the eviction process.
3. Where do I apply for rental or utility assistance now?
   Start with your county or city’s human services office or visit the PA DHS Emergency Rental Assistance page. Not all counties have funds, but local help may be available.
4. Which court handles eviction cases in Pennsylvania?
   Eviction hearings start in Pennsylvania’s Magisterial District Court.
5. What is the main tenant law in Pennsylvania?
   The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 defines most renter and landlord rights statewide.

Summary: What Pennsylvania Renters Should Know

• There is no longer a statewide eviction moratorium, but you must still receive formal notice and a court hearing before eviction.
• Rental assistance programs remain available in many counties, especially for COVID-impacted renters.
• If you face eviction, apply for aid, seek legal advice, and attend your hearing to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) – Official state rental help resource
• Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts – Where eviction hearings are held
• PA Legal Aid – Free tenant legal help and information
• Philadelphia Renter Support – Renters in Philadelphia can find city-specific resources here

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1. Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 (68 Pa. Stat. §§ 250.101 et seq.)
2. PA DHS Emergency Rental Assistance Program
3. Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts

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