8 jurisdiction-correct documents for Philadelphia Municipal Court eviction defense. Covers good-cause termination response, housing code violations, retaliation complaints, rental license verification, rental rebate claims, and step-by-step court filing instructions. Updated to reflect the Safe Healthy Homes Act amendments to Philadelphia Code Chapter 9-3900.
Bills 250329, 250330, and 250331 introduced by Councilmember O'Rourke amend Philadelphia Code Chapter 9-3900 to strengthen good-cause eviction protections, expand rental license requirements, and increase tenant remedies. This packet reflects the pending amendments.
Philadelphia Municipal Court requires tenants to appear at the scheduled hearing. File your answer and defenses before the court date. The Filing Guide in this packet covers all deadlines and procedures under Muni Court Rules 109 and 111.
Under Philadelphia Code §9-811 and Chapter 9-3900, landlords must prove a valid legal reason to terminate tenancy or refuse to renew a lease — non-payment, lease violations, or owner move-in. Without good cause, the eviction can be challenged.
Yes. Philadelphia Code §9-3902(1) requires landlords to hold a valid rental license. An unlicensed landlord may be barred from collecting rent or pursuing eviction. The Rental License Verification Request in this packet confirms compliance.
Philadelphia Code §9-3903 prohibits retaliation for exercising tenant rights — including reporting to L&I, organizing with other tenants, or asserting habitability defenses. The Landlord Retaliation Complaint invokes these protections.
Disclaimer: These documents are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Jurist-Diction is not a law firm. For legal representation, contact Philadelphia Legal Assistance (PLA) at 215-981-3800, Community Legal Services (CLS) at 215-981-3700, or the Philly Tenant Hotline at 267-443-2500.
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