Sealing an Eviction Record in Pennsylvania: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've faced eviction in Pennsylvania, you know how much it can impact your ability to rent a new home. Prospective landlords often check your rental history, and an old eviction can cause ongoing problems. Fortunately, in certain circumstances, you may be able to seal your eviction record under Pennsylvania law. This guide explains the process, eligibility, and official resources so you can move forward with confidence.

Understanding Eviction Records and Sealing in Pennsylvania

When a landlord files an eviction in Pennsylvania, the court creates a public record called a "judgment for possession". Even if your case was dismissed or you settled with your landlord, the record may remain public, which can make renting in the future more difficult.

Sealing the record means that information about the eviction is no longer publicly accessible. This helps renters get a fresh start when applying for housing. Sealing applies primarily to cases that meet specific criteria under Pennsylvania law.

Who Can Seal an Eviction Record in Pennsylvania?

Not all eviction records can be sealed. In Pennsylvania, renters may request to seal their record if:

• The eviction case was withdrawn or dismissed
• A judgment was entered in your favor as the tenant
• The eviction judgment is more than seven years old
• The parties reached a binding agreement that included sealing the record

Sealing is at the discretion of the court, and the exact process may depend on your county. Always check with your local Magisterial District Court, as some requirements may vary.

How to Request to Seal Your Eviction Record

Here's an overview of the process renters in Pennsylvania typically follow to request that their eviction record be sealed.

Step 1: Obtain the Official Form

• Form Name: Petition to Seal an Eviction Record
• Where to Find: The form may be called "Motion/Petition to Seal Eviction Record" and is not currently standardized statewide. Most counties use their own version; check your local Magisterial District Court or the Pennsylvania Courts Self-Help Center.

Example: Let's say your case was dismissed by the landlord before trial. You can request the form from your local Magisterial District Court (sometimes called "Motion to Seal Record"). Complete the form, providing the docket number and brief reasons why sealing is warranted.

Step 2: File the Petition

• Take your completed form to the court clerk at the Magisterial District Court where the eviction case occurred
• You may need to pay a small filing fee (or request a fee waiver if you qualify for low-income status)
• Keep a copy of the filed form for your records

Step 3: Attend the Court Hearing

• The court will schedule a hearing. Be prepared to explain why you believe your record should be sealed, bringing any documentation that supports your request
• If the judge agrees, they will issue an order to seal the eviction record

Relevant Official Tribunal

All residential eviction cases — and motions to seal eviction records — in Pennsylvania are handled by the Magisterial District Courts. This is the tribunal to contact for forms, hearings, and more information about your rights as a tenant.

Pennsylvania Tenancy Laws

Eviction and sealing procedures are governed by the Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 and related court rules.^[1]

Key Steps to Seal an Eviction Record: Quick Summary

• Confirm your eligibility (case outcome meets criteria)
• Obtain the correct form from your county's Magisterial District Court
• Complete and file the petition, attend the hearing if required
• Keep copies of your order if the court seals your record

This protects your privacy and gives you a better chance with future rental applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I seal an eviction record if I lost my case?
   If you lost your eviction case, sealing is generally not automatic. However, if significant time (typically more than seven years) has passed or if there were special circumstances, you may still petition the court to consider sealing.
2. Is there a cost to seal an eviction record in Pennsylvania?
   There may be a small filing fee to submit your petition. Fee waivers are often available if you cannot afford the fee. Ask your Magisterial District Court clerk for the local fee schedule and instructions on requesting a waiver.
3. Does sealing my eviction record remove it from background checks?
   Once sealed by court order, the eviction record is not accessible in public court searches or most rental background checks. However, records held by private screening services may take time to update.
4. How long does the sealing process take?
   The timeline varies by county, but you should generally expect a few weeks from filing the petition to the court's decision, depending on hearing schedules and processing times.
5. Where can I get the most current petition forms?
   Visit your local Magisterial District Court in person or check the Pennsylvania Courts Self-Help Center for the most updated versions of forms and instructions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts – Find your local court and court contact information
• Pennsylvania Courts Self-Help Center – Official guides and forms for representing yourself in court
• PA Law Help: Eviction & Tenant Issues – Information and referrals to free legal aid
• Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency – Renters Resources

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1. Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951
2. Magisterial District Courts
3. Self-Help Court Forms and Instructions

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