Philadelphia has more required paperwork at move-in than almost any U.S. city. Miss one document and you can lose defenses in court later. This checklist covers everything a compliant Philadelphia move-in requires.
☐ Rental License current for this property (eCLIPSE)
☐ Lead-safe or lead-free certificate on file (pre-1978 units)
☐ Certificate of Rental Suitability issued for this tenancy
☐ Applicant screened consistently against your written criteria (Fair Housing and FCRA-compliant)
☐ Signed lease (all pages initialed)
☐ Certificate of Rental Suitability — required at move-in
☐ "Partners in Good Housing" handbook — required by the city
☐ Federal lead disclosure + EPA pamphlet (pre-1978)
☐ Move-in condition checklist signed by both parties
☐ Emergency contact / maintenance-request instructions
☐ Deposit within the PA cap (2 months’ rent max in year one)
☐ Deposit receipt issued; escrow arranged if the deposit exceeds $100 and will be held past year two
☐ First month’s rent receipted
☐ Dated photos of every room saved to the unit’s file
The Certificate of Rental Suitability, the "Partners in Good Housing" handbook, the federal lead disclosure for pre-1978 units, plus the signed lease and move-in checklist.
Pennsylvania law expects documented condition at move-in for deposit purposes — a signed checklist plus photos is the standard of proof.
It is published by the City of Philadelphia and available through the city’s website — provide the current edition to every tenant.
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Manage your property free on 10DoorsThis template is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Landlord-tenant law changes and local ordinances may impose additional requirements — verify current state and local rules before serving any notice. Last reviewed September 2026.