Renew or update your license

Rental Licenses are valid for one year following activation, must be renewed annually, and are not transferrable.

To renew or update your license, you must:

• Be up to date on all City of Philadelphia taxes, including Business Income & Receipts Tax (BIRT). Get a tax clearance certificate to show that your City of Philadelphia tax account is in good standing.
• Have no outstanding L&I violations, including those related to lead safety. You can pay the violation fees and fines online, in person, or by mail.

Once these requirements are met, you can renew or update your license online through eCLIPSE or in person at the Permit and License Center.

Keep your property in good repair

Get help with property improvements and repairs to stay compliant.

• Apply for an improvement loan: The Rental Improvement Fund offers fully forgivable loans for small landlords to make repairs related to the health, safety, and economic security of households. 
• Find a licensed contractor: Before you sign a contract, learn about working with contractors first. Then find a licensed contractor through the contractor lookup tool.

Find financial and housing programs

• Programs to help maintain your property: Public Housing Development Corporation offers credits for facility improvements, support to provide affordable housing options, and financial assistance for modifications for tenants with special needs.
• Homelessness prevention resources: The Office of Homeless Services offers assistance programs and resources for you and your tenants.
• Income guidelines: Use this resource to determine your (or your tenants’) eligibility for programs limited to low- and moderate-income individuals.

Avoid a costly eviction process

The Eviction Diversion Program provides resources for landlords to resolve issues while avoiding a costly or drawn-out court process. 

• Conflict mediation: a free opportunity for landlords and tenants to work together on resolving issues with the help of a neutral mediator
• Financial assistance: you may be eligible for a one-time payment to cover your tenant’s back rent, and your tenant(s) can get help applying for rental assistance to stay current with rent.
• Note: landlords who file for eviction are no longer eligible for the Eviction Diversion Program.

You must be licensed to legally evict a tenant.