Security Deposit Rules: Allentown vs Bethlehem
How do security deposit rules rules compare between Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA?
Allentown, PA
Lehigh County
No data available yet for Allentown.
Bethlehem, PA
Lehigh County
Security deposits in Bethlehem follow Pennsylvania statute. Under 68 P.S. §250.511a a landlord may collect at most two months' rent in the first year. Under §250.511b only one month may be held after year one. Under §250.512 the deposit must be returned with itemization within 30 days of vacancy.
View full Bethlehem rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Allentown | Bethlehem |
|---|---|---|
| Year-1 Cap | - | 2 months' rent (§250.511a) |
| Year-2+ Cap | - | 1 month's rent (§250.511b) |
| Return Deadline | - | 30 days (§250.512) |
| Escrow Threshold | - | >$100 held >2 yrs |
| Penalty | - | Double damages |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Allentown FAQ
No FAQs available.
Bethlehem FAQ
How much deposit can a Bethlehem landlord charge?
No more than two months' rent during the first year of the lease under 68 P.S. §250.511a. After the first year, the landlord must return anything over one month's rent under §250.511b and may not demand additional deposit even if rent rises.
When must my Bethlehem landlord return my deposit?
Within 30 days after you vacate and provide a written forwarding address under 68 P.S. §250.512. The landlord must return it in full or send an itemized damages list with any balance owed. Missing this deadline forfeits deduction rights.
What if my Bethlehem landlord wrongfully keeps my deposit?
Sue in Lehigh County or Northampton County MDJ Court for return. If the landlord missed the 30-day itemization deadline, you may recover double damages on the wrongfully withheld portion under 68 P.S. §250.512(c).
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