Landlords in Philadelphia are legally required to obtain a license to rent a property before collecting any rent. This license is obtained by filing ownership and agency information with the City Department of Licenses and Inspections. The licenses process protects both tenants and the general public by making landlords accountable for their properties.

Even though landlords are not entitled collect rent without a license, some inexperienced or irresponsible landlords fail to get licenses as required. You can call L&I by dialing 311 in Philadelphia and find out if your landlord has a license. If you would like TURN to get certified written confirmation of whether a property is licensed click here.