State Rep. Steve Malagari
House Bill 1567 protects tenants from undue hardship during the process of property repairs and code violation corrections.
State Rep. Steve Malagari, D-Montgomery, said he is pleased to announce the Senate’s passage of H.B. 1567, a bill he introduced to protect tenants from undue hardship during the process of property repairs and code violation corrections.
"Today marks an important step forward for tenant rights in Pennsylvania. This legislation empowers tenants by giving them the confidence to report hazards without the fear of displacement,” Malagari said. “Too often, renters face the impossible choice of either staying silent or risking losing their home. H.B. 1567 eliminates that choice, allowing tenants to advocate for safer living conditions while remaining in their homes."
Under current law, tenants are often forced out of their homes when landlords make necessary repairs. This bill will correct that injustice by allowing tenants to remain in their homes – provided the property remains safe and habitable – while repairs are completed.
House Bill 1567 permits tenants to continue living in rental properties undergoing repairs if deemed safe by a municipal code enforcement officer. This ensures that tenants are not unfairly displaced through no fault of their own and can maintain stability while essential repairs are made.
The bill also allows tenants to withhold rent under the City Rent Withholding Act, providing renters with a tool to address habitability concerns while ensuring that code violations are addressed in a timely manner. Importantly, new occupants will be prevented from moving into properties with ongoing repairs to avoid further complications.
“The passage of this legislation is a significant victory for tenant-rights advocates and those working to ensure safe and secure housing for all Pennsylvanians, Malagari added. “It will help foster a climate of trust between tenants and property owners, where the health and safety of residents are prioritized.”
