Renting property in Philadelphia can feel tricky when tenants have criminal convictions. As a landlord, you want to protect your property, follow local and federal laws, and make smart choices about who you rent to.
Understanding your rights and duties helps you avoid legal problems and keeps your rental safe and reliable.
Know your screening limits
Federal and Pennsylvania law forbids discrimination based only on certain protected categories. Criminal history is not fully protected, so you can consider it when screening tenants.
Pennsylvania’s Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA) lets you look at a tenant’s record only if it affects their ability to safely rent and follow the lease. You cannot reject someone automatically just because they have a past conviction. Focus on whether the conviction creates a real risk to your property or other tenants.
For example, imagine a tenant committed shoplifting five years ago. This crime does not affect their ability to pay rent or follow your rules, so you cannot reject them for it alone.
However, if a tenant has a recent conviction for assault or property damage, you can consider it when deciding if they pose a safety risk to others or your property.
Key landlord rights and considerations
When renting to someone with a conviction in Philadelphia you can:
- Request a criminal background check during the application process
- Deny tenancy based on convictions that directly affect safety or property risk
- Include clear lease provisions regarding behavior and property use
- Evict tenants who violate lease terms or engage in criminal activity on the premises
- Require additional security deposits or references within legal limits
Applying these rights carefully helps you manage tenants responsibly while staying within the law.
Protecting your property while staying compliant
Staying informed helps you make smart decisions to protect your property. Follow clear procedures, use the same screening rules for every applicant and get legal advice when needed. This keeps you compliant and helps you manage your property safely.