Conflicts between landlords and tenants can become overwhelming quickly and potentially lead to larger legal problems. If you are a residential or commercial landlord or tenant, it is important you hire an attorney who understands the specific nuances of Pennsylvania real estate eviction laws. Attorney John D’Intino Jr. is an experienced attorney who has spent years helping individuals and companies protect themselves against eviction issues.
How an Eviction Works in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, a landlord must give written notice to a tenant to leave the property. The way a landlord gives notice will be explained in the lease, but if a tenant is being evicted for not paying rent, or the landlord and tenant do not have a written lease, a landlord usually needs to give them ten days written notice. If the tenant is being evicted because they violated a term in the lease or the lease has come to an end, the landlord must give the tenant at least fifteen days’ notice. Notice is usually posted on the door of the property, but sometimes the landlord may opt to have it mailed, in which case it must be sent certified mail and return receipt requested.
At the same time that notice is given to the tenant to vacate the premises, the landlord may also file an eviction complaint with the courthouse. At this point, the landlord is allowed to sue the tenant for nonpayment of rent, damage to the property, or other costs they incurred because of the tenancy. If an agreement cannot be made at this pre-trial settlement hearing, the judge will order a hearing date to be set. If the tenant does not show up to this hearing, they will automatically lose.
How a Skilled Attorney Can Help
Every Pennsylvania citizen has a right to counsel in an eviction proceeding. Hiring a skilled attorney to advocate on your behalf will ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Attorney D’Intino will be able to pinpoint safeguards for both tenants and landlords to prevent or further eviction, respectively.
