Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

Can a landlord keep deposit if I don't move in or sign a lease?

I gave a landlord a first and last months deposit and signed a receipt.The receipt says non refundable but the deposit is refundable after the year lease is up.I never signed a lease, and changed my mind.I signed this on June 16 05 and told him on june 20 05 that I changed my mind, to keep first month and return the deposit. He says he is keeping all of it, and I signed a lease,which I did not.Claims he stopped two week ad and turned away others.The apt will be available on jul.1 05.Can he keep all of my money?Jul 01 05 has not come yet and people are still calling about the apt.The amount total is over $1,000.Since he can still rent out and I have never signed a lease doesn't he have to return the money?


Asked on 6/28/05, 5:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Can a landlord keep deposit if I don't move in or sign a lease?

It would cost the landlord a significant portion of the $1000 to uphold any claim he might have to the money. An offer to split the differnce would probably save both parties time and money. I offer free consultations.

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Answered on 6/28/05, 5:56 am


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