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HB 626

An Act amending Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in real estate foreclosure, providing for code compliance notice following sheriff's sale.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Danilo Burgos and 10 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania requires code compliance notices be provided to properties after sheriff's foreclosure sales, ensuring new owners know about building violations before taking ownership.

Referred to Housing & Community Development
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Bill Summary · HB 626

Legislative bill overview

HB 626 amends Pennsylvania's foreclosure law to require that code compliance notices be provided to properties following a sheriff's sale. The bill specifies procedures for notifying new owners about building code violations and safety issues discovered during the foreclosure process, ensuring transparency about the property's condition before ownership transfers.

Why is this important

Foreclosed properties often have deferred maintenance and code violations that new owners may not be aware of at purchase. By mandating code compliance notices, the bill protects new homeowners from inheriting unexpected repair costs and safety hazards, while also incentivizing better property maintenance during the foreclosure process. This addresses a real gap where buyers can acquire severely distressed properties without clear disclosure of violations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Unclear who bears the cost of code inspections and notice delivery—whether it falls on municipalities, sheriffs' offices, or foreclosing lenders, which could increase foreclosure processing expenses
  • Timeline concerns: Adding notification requirements could slow the foreclosure and property transfer process, potentially delaying resolution for both lenders and buyers
  • Enforcement mechanism: The bill may lack clarity on consequences if notices aren't provided or are inadequate, and whether new owners can void sales or seek damages for undisclosed violations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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