Eviction Sealing in Pennsylvania: What Landlords Need to Know in 2025
A New Challenge for Pennsylvania Landlords
Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025 budget address dropped a bombshell for Pennsylvania landlords: a proposal to seal eviction records statewide. Announced in February, this policy aims to help renters, but it’s raising eyebrows among property owners. How will this affect your ability to screen tenants and protect your investments? Let’s break down what Shapiro’s plan means for landlords like you.
Why Eviction Sealing in Pennsylvania Worries Landlords
Losing Visibility on Tenant History
For landlords, eviction records are a critical tool. In 2024, Pennsylvania saw over 115,000 eviction filings, per Spotlight PA. These public records help you assess risk—whether a tenant paid rent late, broke a lease, or fought eviction and lost. Sealing them, especially for cases tenants win or settle, could leave you blind to red flags. Paul Cohen, a legal advisor to the Pennsylvania Apartment Association, warns that this could tilt the scales too far toward renters, making it harder to avoid problem tenants.
A National Shift You Can’t Ignore
Pennsylvania isn’t breaking new ground here—over a dozen states already seal eviction records. But as a landlord, you might wonder: does this trend prioritize tenant rights over your property rights? With housing policies shifting nationally, staying informed is key to adapting your rental strategy.
Shapiro’s Proposal: What’s on the Table for Landlords
The Details We Know
Shapiro’s plan, pitched during his budget address, calls for sealing eviction records—likely for cases where tenants prevail or reach settlements. It’s part of a broader housing push, including:
- $10 million for first-time homebuyers, potentially shrinking the rental pool.
- $50 million to fix aging homes, which could ease pressure on rental stock.
- More funding for affordable housing, a mixed bag for landlords.
A Call for Balance
Cohen and the Pennsylvania Apartment Association aren’t outright opposed—they see potential if paired with landlord protections. Think preempting rent control or streamlining eviction processes. Without these, you might feel the squeeze as Harrisburg debates this tenant-focused policy.pact
How Eviction Sealing Could Affect Your Business
Screening Tenants Gets Trickier
Imagine this: a prospective tenant applies for your Philly rowhouse or Pittsburgh duplex, but their eviction history—dismissed or not—is hidden. You might hesitate to rent, or worse, take a chance on someone who disrupts your cash flow. Sealing records could force you to rethink your screening process, leaning harder on credit checks or references.
Legislative Uncertainty Looms
The catch? Pennsylvania’s split legislature could stall this. House Majority Leader Matt Bradford’s team praised Shapiro’s housing focus but didn’t commit. If it passes, you’ll need to adapt fast. If it fails, the status quo holds—for now. Either way, landlord advocacy might shape the final rules.
What Landlords Can Do Next
Stay Ahead of the Curve
As of March 10, 2025, this proposal is still brewing. Track updates through sources like the Pennsylvania Apartment Association. Better yet, get involved—voice your concerns to lawmakers or join landlord groups pushing for a fair deal.
Prepare for Change
Start brainstorming now: How will you adjust if eviction records vanish? Tighten lease terms? Demand higher deposits? The more proactive you are, the less this policy will catch you off guard.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment in Uncertain Times
Governor Josh Shapiro’s eviction sealing proposal could reshape Pennsylvania’s rental landscape—and not necessarily in landlords’ favor. While it promises renters a clean slate, it risks complicating your tenant vetting and property management. As 2025 unfolds, staying informed and vocal will be your best defense. What’s your take—can landlords thrive under this policy, or is it a step too far? Share your thoughts below!
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Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice.