Protocol on raising rents (Philadelphia)

[Christina Karabas]

I'm a first time landlord in Lower Merion and would like to give my tenant (who is currently living in a 2 bedroom unit priced way under market) the option to move into a vacant one bedroom unit for a slight rent increase, or remain in the two bedroom with a more significant rent increase. His lease is currently month to month. Should I send him an official notice of rent increase and email him the option of moving into the one bedroom unit? Is there a legal amount a landlord can raise a tenant's rent even if offering them another option? Thank you!!

[Kevin Uzelac]

@Christina Karabas it depends on the lease agreement. Although, there is no rent control in Pennsylvania so you can raise it as much as you deem necessary. According to an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer, "Unless the lease says otherwise, your landlord can only increase rent at the end of a lease term. So, for example, they can’t raise your rent six months into a yearlong lease, unless your lease specifically says otherwise"...

When it comes to how much notice you have to give your tenant, "Pennsylvania doesn't have any laws on this, though many leases will provide terms." For Philly its 60 days notice if the lease is 1 year or 30 days notice if its less than that. So, I would recommend giving the tenant at least 30 days notice of his options and the rent changes. I hope this helps!