Philadelphia City Council passed two key housing bills on June 12, setting the stage for them to become law in the coming weeks and bringing potential changes for both renters and landlords. State law already prohibits landlords from charging more than two months’ security deposit for a tenant to move in for the first year. During the second year, landlords can only hold one month’s security deposit. Under the proposed law:

• Landlords with three units or more who charge more than one month’s security deposit prior to move-in must allow a tenant to pay the deposit in three equal installments. 
• Landlords can charge no more than $50 for application fees for prospective tenants. 

The proposed law would only apply to new rental lease contracts and would not be retroactive to any existing leases. If the bill becomes law, it would go into effect in 90 days. Tenants would be able to hire an attorney to file a lawsuit against their landlord for violating the law and may seek damages in court. To enforce the law, tenants must file a complaint with the Philadelphia Fair Housing Commission. Read more at PlanPhilly.
Source: PlanPhilly; 6/16/2025