Pennsylvania § 521 - Liens and distribution of damages.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 521 — Liens and distribution of damages., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 521. Liens and distribution of damages.
(a) Liens.--
(1) Damages payable to a condemnee under sections 701 (relating to just compensation; other damages) through 707 (relating to removal of machinery, equipment or fixtures), 713 (relating to delay compensation), 714 (relating to consequential damages), 715 (relating to damages for vacation of roads) and 902(b)(1) and (2) (relating to moving and related expenses of displaced persons) shall be subject to a lien for all taxes and municipal claims assessed against the property and to all mortgages, judgments and other liens of record against the property for which the particular damages are payable, existing at the date of the filing of the declaration of taking.
(2) The liens shall be paid out of the damages in order of priority before any payment to the condemnee, unless released.
(3) In the case of a partial taking or of damages under sections 714 and 715, the lienholder shall be entitled only to an equitable pro rata share of the damages lienable under this section.
(b) Distribution of damages.--
(1) The condemnor shall distribute the damages properly. If the condemnor is unable to determine proper distribution of the damages, it may, without payment into court, petition the court to distribute the damages and shall furnish the court with a schedule of proposed distribution.
(2) Notice of the filing of the petition and schedule of proposed distribution shall be given to all condemnees, mortgagees, judgment creditors and other lienholders, as shown in the proposed schedule, in any manner as the court may direct by general rule or special order.
(3) The court may hear the matter or may appoint a master to hear and report or may order any issue tried by the court and jury as may appear proper under all the circumstances.
(4) The court shall then enter an order of distribution of the fund.
Cross References. Section 521 is referred to in section 522 of this title.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 521
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 521 cover?
Section 521 ("Liens and distribution of damages.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 521?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 521" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 521 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.