HARRISBURG, PA — A State College landlord accused of withholding security deposits and providing unsafe living conditions has reached a settlement with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Rodney Hendricks, doing business as Hendricks Investments, was sued by the Attorney General for allegedly violating the Pennsylvania Landlord/Tenant Act and consumer protection laws. The case stemmed from complaints by tenants, many of whom were Penn State University students, who reported deductions from security deposits for improper damages and substandard housing conditions.
Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the settlement, emphasizing the significance of landlord accountability. “This settlement ensures that Hendricks Investments will no longer provide subpar properties or make excessive deductions from security deposits,” Sunday said.
Under the agreement, Hendricks must comply with state landlord-tenant laws, including providing tenants with an itemized list of actual damages when deducting from security deposits and prohibiting deductions for normal wear and tear. Photos used to promote rental properties must now include disclaimers urging personal inspections prior to lease agreements.
Hendricks also agreed to pay $30,000 to reimburse eligible tenants who previously filed complaints with the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. Additional settlement terms include a 24-hour notice requirement for property access, barring emergencies or tenant requests.
