Landlords Should Have Written Leases

Protect Your Interests with a Written Lease

It can be tempting to rely upon an oral lease and Pennsylvania does allow for the existence of oral leases. Landlords might wish to save initial costs and time by skipping a written lease but doing so can end up costing much more and leave landlords without important protections. For example, a landlord cannot recover attorneys fees from a tenant if there is no written lease.

Some of the most important items that can protect a landlord in a residential lease include the waiver of certain notices that are otherwise required. A written lease also identifies the tenants, property, rent, and other important provisions. Many of these provisions can expedite the eviction process and help it to go more smoothly. 

However, there are certain things that must not be included in a residential lease in Pennsylvania as well as notices that may be required depending upon the age of the property. Residential leases and landlords must comply with the Landlord Tenant Act, Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law, and the Plain Language Consumer Contract Law.  

For help with residential leases and other landlord/tenant issues, contact Attorney Hunter Schenck at hschenck@cgalaw.com or using the CGA online question feature to set up a consultation with Attorney Schenck.