In Pennsylvania, after an eviction or when a tenant vacates a rental property, the tenant has a 10-day period to retrieve any personal belongings left behind. This 10-day notice period is governed by Pennsylvania law, specifically 68 P.S. § 250.505a and Act 129, which require landlords to send a written notice to the tenant informing them of their right to reclaim their property within this timeframe.
Key Points About the 10-Day Notice Period:
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Start of the 10-Day Period:
The 10 days begin from the postmark date of the landlord’s written notice to the tenant, or from the date the eviction order (writ of possession) is served if it contains the required language about the 10-day rule. -
Notice Requirements:
The landlord must provide a written notice that:- Informs the tenant they have 10 days to state their intention to retrieve belongings.
- Specifies where the belongings can be retrieved.
- States that the tenant is responsible for any costs related to moving and storage.
- Includes the landlord’s contact information (address, phone, email).
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Tenant’s Response:
The tenant must notify the landlord within the 10-day period if they intend to retrieve their belongings. This notification can be done by phone and should be followed up with a written letter for record-keeping. -
Extension of Storage:
If the tenant requests, the landlord must store the belongings for an additional period not exceeding 30 days from the date of the notice. -
Failure to Respond:
If the tenant does not contact the landlord within the 10-day period, the landlord is legally allowed to dispose of the belongings as they see fit after that time.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Notice period | 10 days from postmark of landlord’s written notice or eviction order service |
| Tenant action required | Notify landlord of intent to retrieve belongings within 10 days |
| Storage extension | Up to 30 additional days if tenant requests |
| Landlord’s rights after 10 days | Can dispose of belongings if tenant fails to respond |
| Notice content | Retrieval deadline, location, tenant’s responsibility for costs, landlord contact info |
This process ensures tenants have a fair opportunity to reclaim their property after eviction while giving landlords a clear legal framework to handle abandoned belongings responsibly.
🔴 Immediate Actions (Today or ASAP)
- Check for any written notice from your landlord about your belongings. Note the postmark date or the date you received the eviction order.
- Act quickly: You have 10 days from that date to notify the landlord if you want to retrieve your belongings.
- Contact your landlord immediately by phone to say you intend to pick up your items.
- Follow up with a written letter or email confirming your intent to retrieve your belongings. Keep a copy for your records.
- Gather any proof of communication such as phone logs, emails, or letters.
🟡 Short-Term Steps (This Week)
- Arrange a time and place to pick up your belongings as specified by the landlord's notice.
- Prepare to cover any reasonable costs for moving or storage as the landlord may require.
- Request an extension in writing if you need more time to retrieve your belongings (up to 30 days).
- Document everything: Take photos or videos of your belongings at pickup and keep receipts or written agreements.
- If you cannot reach the landlord, send a certified letter to their contact address stating your intent to retrieve your belongings within the 10-day window.
🟢 Strategic Follow-Up (Next 2-4 Weeks or Longer)
- If the landlord disposes of your belongings after the 10-day period and you did notify them properly, consider consulting a lawyer about possible claims for lost property.
- Keep all communication records in case you need to prove your actions or the landlord's failure to comply with the law.
- Review your lease and eviction documents to understand your rights and any additional protections.
- Consider seeking assistance from tenant advocacy groups if you believe the landlord did not follow legal procedures.
Your Legal Rights
Under Pennsylvania law (68 P.S. § 250.505a and Act 129), after eviction or vacating a rental unit, you have a 10-day period to notify the landlord of your intent to retrieve any personal belongings left behind.
The landlord must send you a written notice explaining your rights, where to get your items, and that you are responsible for any costs.
If you notify the landlord within 10 days, they must hold your belongings for up to an additional 30 days if you request it.
If you do not respond, the landlord can legally dispose of your belongings.
You have the right to keep records of all communications and may seek legal help if the landlord violates these rules.
Where to Get Help
- Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network (PLAN): Find free or low-cost legal help for tenant issues. Website: https://palegalaid.net/
- Pennsylvania Department of Human Services: Tenant rights and housing assistance info.
- Local Tenant Unions or Advocacy Groups: They can provide guidance and support.
- Consumer Protection Office: For complaints against landlords.
- Keep all documents handy: eviction notices, landlord’s written notice, your communications, and any receipts related to your belongings.
Emergency: If you feel your belongings are being unlawfully disposed of immediately, contact local law enforcement or a legal aid hotline.
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