Pennsylvania Rent Control: What Happens When You Move to Market Rent?

Understanding your rights in Pennsylvania when moving from a rent-controlled or rent-stabilized apartment to a market rent unit is crucial. Pennsylvania renters often face uncertainty about rent increases and lease changes—especially since the state currently has no statewide rent control law. This article explains what market rent means, how transitions happen, and what protections exist for renters in Pennsylvania.

Understanding Rent Control and Market Rent in Pennsylvania

"Rent control" is a system where local or state law limits how much landlords can increase rent each year. In many places, "rent-stabilized" means similar protections with set increase limits. However, Pennsylvania does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws for private residential rentals, and most cities, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, follow state guidance that prohibits local rent control.^[1]

If you have been living under a rent-controlled arrangement (rare and usually specific to government-subsidized units), moving into a "market rent" unit means your landlord can set the rent freely based on the current market—not limited by law or a guideline. Always read your lease and ask the landlord how rent will be determined.

Key Differences: Rent-Controlled vs. Market Rent Units

• Rent-Controlled: Rent increases are strictly limited by law. Landlords must follow specific rules for notices and amounts.
• Market Rent: Rent is set by the landlord, with no legal cap on increases at lease renewal. The main requirement is proper written notice.

For most renters in Pennsylvania, market rent rules apply. Government-subsidized (public housing, Section 8) tenants should confirm with their housing authority whether controls apply to them.

What to Expect When Moving to Market Rent

• Rent Increases: At the end of your lease term, your landlord can increase the rent by any amount, provided written notice is given according to your lease or, if unspecified, state law.
• Notice Period: Unless your lease states otherwise, landlords must give you at least 15 days’ notice before termination or any change to a yearly lease, or 15 days for month-to-month leases. If your lease is one year or longer, that notice period increases to 30 days after the first year.^[2]
• Lease Renewal: A new lease at a higher, market rate can be offered at the end of your current lease. If you do not accept, the landlord can choose not to renew.

If you move from a rent-controlled unit into a market rent apartment, it is important to prepare for possible significant rent increases upon lease renewal. Landlords cannot raise rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless your contract allows for it.

Required Forms and Official Notices

• Notice to Vacate (Philadelphia Good Cause):
  • When Used: If in Philadelphia, landlords must provide a valid reason ("good cause") for non-renewal or eviction. The Good Cause Notice Form must be delivered in writing before asking a tenant to leave or changing lease terms.
  • Example: If your landlord wants you to move out when your lease ends so they can raise rent above what you can pay, they must give formal notice using this form.
• Notice of Termination of Tenancy (for subsidized housing):
  • When Used: In subsidized housing or Section 8, this form is required for ending a tenancy or lease.
  • Example: If you were renting a rent-controlled or subsidized apartment and the landlord wants to end your lease, you’ll receive this notice.

Relevant Tribunal and Legislation

• Philadelphia Municipal Court – Civil Division handles landlord-tenant disputes in Philadelphia.
• Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 is the main legislation governing residential tenancies statewide.^[2]

Steps to Take When Moving From Rent-Controlled to Market Rent

Here’s a quick summary of what to do if you receive a notice or your rent is increasing:

• Read your lease and any official notices carefully
• Check if "good cause" or special protections apply (especially in Philadelphia and subsidized housing)
• Ask your landlord to clarify the reason and amount for any proposed rent increase
• If you disagree or feel your rights have been violated, consider contacting your local housing authority or the court handling landlord-tenant disputes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there rent control or rent stabilization in Pennsylvania?
   Pennsylvania does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization for private units, and state law prevents cities from enacting their own rent control ordinances.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising the rent?
   Unless your lease says otherwise, landlords must provide at least 15 days’ written notice for yearly leases and at least 30 days after the first year. Month-to-month tenancies require 15 days’ notice.
3. Can my landlord raise my rent by any amount?
   Yes, for market rent apartments. There is no legal cap unless you are in subsidized or public housing.
4. Are there any special forms landlords must use in Philadelphia?
   Yes. In Philadelphia, the "Good Cause Notice" form is required if a landlord wishes to terminate or not renew a lease without cause; see the official form here.
5. What should I do if I think a rent increase is unfair or retaliatory?
   Document all communication, review your lease and the Landlord and Tenant Act, and contact your local housing office or legal aid.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Pennsylvania Renters

• Pennsylvania has no statewide rent control; most renters are in "market rent" units
• Your landlord must give proper written notice before a rent increase
• Know your rights—especially if moving from subsidized or rent-controlled housing

If you have questions or concerns, always consult the official resources listed below or seek guidance from housing authorities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Landlord Tenant Complaints
• Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) – Tenant Resources
• Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations (for discrimination or fair housing issues)
• Philadelphia Municipal Court Landlord-Tenant Information

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1. "Act 246 of 1982 – Local Rent Control Prohibition Act". See the official Pennsylvania legislature text.
2. "Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951." Full law available at the Pennsylvania General Assembly site.

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