West Virginia Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
West Virginia's landlord-tenant law provides protections with specific requirements for security deposits and rental agreements. The state has clear procedures for lease agreements and evictions.
Security Deposit
Limit: No statutory limit on security deposit amounts.
Return Period: 60 days after termination of tenancy, or within 45 days if tenant provides forwarding address. Must provide itemized statement of damages.
Rent Increases
30 days notice required for month-to-month tenancies. Must follow lease terms for fixed-term leases.
Entry Notice
Reasonable notice required, typically 24 hours except in emergencies.
Key Statutes
- West Virginia Code §37-6A-1 - Residential Rental Agreements
- West Virginia Code §37-6-30 - Security Deposits
- West Virginia Code §37-6A-3 - Landlord Obligations
- West Virginia Code §55-3A-1 - Eviction Process
Common Issues
- Not returning deposits within required timeframe
- Failure to provide itemized deductions
- Entering without reasonable notice
- Not maintaining habitability standards
- Improper eviction procedures