Certificate of Rental Suitability Philadelphia Overview
What is a Certificate of Rental Suitability? When and why do you need one? Read on to learn more!
What is a Certificate of Rental Suitability?
A Certificate of Rental Suitability is used to verify that a rental property is free of violations and safe for habilitation.
When does a Landlord need a Certificate of Rental Suitability?
A Certificate of Rental Suitability must be presented to a tenant by the landlord at the start of the tenancy. The Certificate must be issued within 60 days prior to the lease start date. All tenants must be presented with a valid Certificate of Rental Suitability.
How long is a Certificate of Rental Suitability valid for?
A Certificate of Rental Suitability is valid for 60 days from the issuance date.
Does a Certificate of Rental Suitability need to be renewed when it expires?
No. A tenant only needs to be provided a Certificate of Rental Suitability at the start of their tenancy. Once it expires, the same tenant does not need to be provided a renewed certificate. If a new lease agreement and tenancy is begining, then the landlord must issue a new Certificate of Rental Suitability.
What are the requirements for a Certificate of Rental Suitabiltiy?
A landlord must comply with the following to be issued a Certificate:
Have a Philadelphia tax account number for Business Income and Receipts Tax (BIRT)
Active rental license
No outstanding property violations
Ensure the property has proper fire protection & smoke detectors are in working order
Upkeep and maintain the property condition throughout the lease term
Once the Certificate of Rental Suitability is issued, what should a Landlord do with it?
Prior to the tenancy commencement, the landlord must fill out the Certificate with their name, signature, date and specify the unit number. The landlord then needs to present the Certificate to their tenant. It is reccomended to have the tenant sign the certificate for proof of receipt.
