Property Management

Under Pennsylvania law, what constitutes an 'uninhabitable' rental unit that may allow a tenant to withhold rent or terminate the lease?

AAny unit with cosmetic defects or outdated appliances
BA unit lacking essential services such as heat, hot water, or structural safety, violating the warranty of habitability✓ Correct
CA unit where the rent exceeds 30% of the tenant's income
DA unit located in a neighborhood with above-average crime rates

Explanation

Pennsylvania's implied warranty of habitability requires rental units to maintain basic livable conditions — adequate heat, plumbing, structural integrity, and freedom from conditions that endanger health or safety. When a landlord fails to maintain habitability after notice, tenants may have remedies including rent escrow, repair-and-deduct (in some circumstances), lease termination, or damages. Pennsylvania courts have recognized this warranty in residential leases.

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