Do I have to go through the Eviction Diversion Program before filing an eviction?

For an ordinary covered case while Philadelphia operates the mandatory program, § 9-811 requires enrollment in Eviction Diversion, delivery of the Notice of Diversion Rights, and reasonable good-faith participation for at least 30 days before taking steps to evict. The section includes an exception when eviction is necessary to cease or prevent an imminent threat of harm by the person being evicted, including physical harm or harassment.

The section includes an exception when eviction is necessary to cease or prevent an imminent threat of harm by the person being evicted, including physical harm or harassment. Current forms, documentary requirements, program operation, and the facts supporting any asserted exception should be checked at the time of the case.

Do not infer the legal result from a checklist. License status, the claimed basis for possession, an asserted exception, and the current court process all require case-specific review.

Bills 250329-AA and 250330-AA contain changes scheduled for November 1, 2026, including expanded good-cause treatment. Those are future-effective rules, and any related litigation status must be verified from a current docket rather than an older public mirror.

This answer covers the compliance prerequisites, not eviction strategy. Before serving notices or filing anything, talk to a licensed Pennsylvania attorney who handles Philadelphia landlord-tenant matters.