LegalCals

Pennsylvania Eviction Rules

Official notice periods, filing timelines, and legal citations for this state.

Notice Requirements

Nonpayment of Rent
10 days
Lease Violation
15 days (lease ≤ 1 year) or 30 days (lease > 1 year)
When can the landlord file?
Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or move-out.
Tenant answer deadline
Tenant may appear at the Magisterial District Judge hearing; appeals must be filed within 10 days.
Hearing timeline
Hearings are typically scheduled 7–15 days after filing.
Lockout / physical eviction
Only a sheriff or constable may perform the lockout after judgment and order for possession.

Eviction Process Timeline

  1. Notice Period (Nonpayment)

    10 days

  2. Notice Period (Lease Violation)

    15 days (lease ≤ 1 year) or 30 days (lease > 1 year)

  3. Landlord Can File

    Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or move-out.

  4. Tenant Answer Deadline

    Tenant may appear at the Magisterial District Judge hearing; appeals must be filed within 10 days.

  5. Hearing Timeline

    Hearings are typically scheduled 7–15 days after filing.

  6. Lockout / Physical Eviction

    Only a sheriff or constable may perform the lockout after judgment and order for possession.

Legal Citations

  • 68 P.S. § 250.501
  • PA Landlord-Tenant Act