Virginia Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act establishes detailed requirements for rental housing relationships. The state provides specific procedures for security deposits, rent increases, property maintenance, and evictions.
Security Deposit
Limit: 2 months' rent for security deposits.
Return Period: 45 days after termination of tenancy. Must provide itemized list of damages. If landlord fails to return deposit or provide itemization, tenant may recover full amount plus damages.
Rent Increases
30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.
Entry Notice
72 hours notice required for routine maintenance, 24 hours for emergencies, or as specified in lease.
Key Statutes
- Virginia Code §55.1-1226 - Security Deposits
- Virginia Code §55.1-1227 - Move-in Inspection
- Virginia Code §55.1-1230 - Landlord
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Common Issues
- Not returning deposits within 45 days with itemization
- Failure to conduct move-in inspection
- Entering without proper notice
- Not maintaining habitability standards
- Improper eviction procedures