What Can You Charge a Tenant’s Security Deposit For in Philly?
Tenants leave trash on the sidewalk and windows wide open at move-out. Here’s what a Philadelphia landlord can actually charge a security deposit for — and what you can’t.
Author: Joe White
Joe White is a Philadelphia Property Manager and Real Estate Broker. He is the owner of Grow Property Management and has been involved in the management, sales and purchases of Philadelphia area rental investment properties since 2008. He is an author and works as a real estate investment consultant and construction manager.
Philadelphia Rental Occupancy Limits: How Many Tenants Can Legally Live in Your Unit?
Philadelphia occupancy limits explained: how many tenants can legally live in your rental, egress rules for basements, and how to avoid fair housing complaints.
Who Replaces Light Bulbs in a Rental — Tenant or Landlord?
Are light bulbs a tenant or landlord expense in a Philadelphia rental? The short answer is tenant — but the smart answer has real exceptions.
Philadelphia Late Rent Fees: What Landlords Can Legally Charge in 2025
Philadelphia caps late rent fees at 5% of monthly rent — and requires a grace period first. Here’s exactly what you can legally charge and how to enforce it.
Breaking a Lease in Pennsylvania: A Landlord’s 2025 Guide
A Philadelphia landlord’s 2025 guide to early lease termination in PA — when tenants can legally walk, when they still owe you, and how to protect yourself.
Is Zillow’s Rent Estimate Accurate? A Philly Landlord’s Honest Take
Zillow’s rent estimate is off by $100–$300/month on most Philly rentals. Here’s how accurate it really is — and how to actually price your property.
How One Bad House Can Drag Down an Entire Block’s Value
One distressed house can drag down an entire block’s property values. Here’s a real Philadelphia example — and why the worst house on a good block can be the best investment.
Rittenhouse Square Property Management: What Landlords Need to Know
Rittenhouse Square is Philadelphia’s most prestigious rental market — and it demands a completely different management approach. Here’s what landlords need to know.
Should You Give a Tenant a Rent Credit for a Repair?
A tenant’s water main broke and the owner wants to comp a full month of rent. Should you? Here’s how I actually handle repairs and rent credits.
Why Tenants With Bad Attorneys Hurt Everyone (Including Themselves)
Tenants with free attorneys often think they’re off the hook — but bad legal advice ends up hurting both the tenant and the landlord. Here’s why.
