Philadelphia rental license inspection & compliance

Philadelphia's inspection approach

Philadelphia does not operate like some cities where every rental license requires a city-performed habitability inspection upfront. In practice, the "inspection-like" component that commonly controls eligibility is lead certification (lead-safe or lead-free), plus any L&I inspections triggered by complaints/violations.

Lead certification "inspection" (most common)

Lead certification is required for many rentals and is explicitly linked to rental license issuance/renewal and leasing. This is the most common compliance requirement that functions like an inspection.

What it focuses on

Lead hazards in (generally) pre-1978 housing and compliance with City lead law requirements for rental properties. The certification process involves:

• Addressing peeling/chipping paint
• Stabilizing surfaces
• Using qualified lead professionals as required
• Ensuring paperwork matches the rental license details (City data notes consistency matters)

Exemptions

Lead law exemptions commonly include properties built after 1978 and certain housing categories (e.g., dormitories). If your property qualifies for an exemption, we help coordinate the exemption documentation.

Important: Lead documentation is a major gatekeeper for both licensing and leasing in Philadelphia. For many units, especially pre-1978, treat it as non-optional.

L&I violation-driven inspections

L&I can inspect for code issues, often triggered by complaints or enforcement. Open violations can block key steps like Suitability Certificates and licensing.

What happens if violations are found

If violations exist, they must be resolved or appealed appropriately before the rental license can be issued. This is often the longest path item in the licensing process.

We help identify violations early, understand what needs to be fixed, and coordinate resolution before filing your rental license application.

Timeline considerations

Lead certification timeline varies widely—scheduling and remediation can extend this significantly. If violations exist, resolution can take weeks or months depending on the nature of the issues.

Fast path: If tax/CAL setup is already in place and lead status is clear (or exemption applies), the process can move quickly.

Typical path: Several weeks due to lead certification coordination, tax verification, or violation cleanup.

Slow path: 1-3+ months when violations, occupancy legalization questions, or lead remediation are involved.

How we help with compliance

As part of our Philadelphia rental license service, we can:

• Check violation status and identify what's blocking approval
• Coordinate lead certification or help obtain exemption documentation
• Work with qualified lead professionals as required
• Help address compliance issues before filing (peeling paint, violations, etc.)
• Ensure all documentation matches rental license details for consistency
• Coordinate follow-up if L&I inspections are triggered
• Help resolve violations that could block license issuance

Certificate of Rental Suitability

Owners must provide a Certificate of Rental Suitability to tenants before move-in. This certificate:

• Is free and obtained through eCLIPSE
• Must be issued no more than 60 days prior to the start of the tenancy
• Requires that licensing/violations are in good standing

We help ensure you're able to obtain and provide these certificates as needed for each tenancy.