Virginia Landlord-Tenant Law: manage Guide 2026
manage Virginia landlord-tenant law with our 2026 guide. Cover VRLTA regulations, security deposits, eviction rules, and landlord rights in Virginia.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Since its statehood in 1788, Virginia has developed a comprehensive legal framework. The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) (VA Code § 55.1-1200 et seq.) establishes a structured, highly regulated framework for residential leasing in the Commonwealth. As of 2024, the VRLTA applies to all residential tenancies in Virginia, regardless of the number of units owned by the landlord.
Key Virginia Rental Laws at a Glance
2024-2025 VRLTA Legislative Updates
Virginia has aggressively updated the VRLTA to focus on transparency and eviction reduction:
- Fee Disclosure Statement: Landlords must provide a separate fee disclosure statement to a prospective tenant before the tenant signs a rental agreement or pays any money (including a security deposit). This statement must include all nonrefundable, refundable, and recurring fees, as well as security deposit requirements.
- Processing Fees: Landlords can no longer charge tenants a "convenience" or processing fee to pay rent or deposits unless they also offer at least one free alternative payment method.
- Eviction Records Expungement: Virginia courts now automatically expunge eviction records for cases that were dismissed over 30 days ago, directly impacting landlord screening software.
- Statement of Tenant Rights: Landlords are mandated to provide a newly updated Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities to all tenants.
Security Deposits
Virginia caps security deposits at two months' periodic rent. However, if a landlord requires as a condition of tenancy that a tenant have renter's insurance, the landlord shall not require the tenant to provide a security deposit in an amount or value in excess of one month's periodic rent. Landlords have 45 days to return the deposit and an itemized list of deductions.
For more detail, see our Security Deposits guide.
Eviction & The Diversion Program
For non-payment of rent, a landlord is not required to issue a 5-Day Notice to Pay or Quit before filing an unlawful detainer. However, if an unlawful detainer is filed, the tenant has the right of redemption. This allows the tenant to pay all rent due, late fees, reasonable attorney fees, and court costs at any time prior to the entry of an order of possession and money judgment to redeem possession of the dwelling unit. For other lease violations, a 21/30 notice (21 days to cure, 30 days to quit) is standard. Furthermore, an Eviction Diversion Program is expanding statewide in 2025, offering court-ordered payment plans to help tenants avoid a final judgment of possession.
For more detail, see our Eviction Process guide.
Rent Control & Rent Increases
Virginia currently has no statewide rent control and generally prohibits localities from enacting it. However, 2025 proposed legislation aims to allow certain localities to limit rent increases and establish anti-gouging boards, making this a highly volatile area of law to watch.
For more detail, see our Rent Increases guide.
Additional Compliance Focus Areas
Explore our targeted guides for managing residential property in Virginia:
How Landager Helps
Landager tracks lease terms, security deposit deadlines, and maintenance requests - making it easy to stay compliant with Virginia regulations.
Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What are the Virginia landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) establishes a structured, highly regulated framework for residential leasing in the Commonwealth. While historically viewed as landlord-friendly due to its lack of rent control, recent legislative sessions (2024 and 2025) have introduced significant new tenant protections, fee transparency, and eviction diversion programs. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
▶What is the Virginia eviction process and how long does it take?
The Virginia eviction process requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing a court action. The type and length of notice depends on the reason for eviction — typically shorter for non-payment of rent and longer for lease violations or no-fault terminations. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Virginia. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Virginia security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Virginia has specific rules governing how much landlords can charge for security deposits, how deposits must be held, and the deadline for returning deposits after a tenant moves out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from the deposit. Failure to comply with deposit return deadlines can result in penalties and the forfeiture of the landlord's right to claim deductions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Virginia rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Virginia has specific rules governing when and how landlords can increase rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease explicitly allows it. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice before an increase takes effect. Check whether Virginia has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
Read the complete guide▶What is the grace period for late rent in Virginia?
Virginia has specific rules regarding grace periods for late rent and the amount that can be charged as a late fee. Late fee provisions must be stated in the lease agreement, and fees must be reasonable. Check Virginia state law and any applicable local ordinances for the exact grace period and late fee limits that apply to your rental property.
Read the complete guide▶What disclosures must Virginia landlords provide to tenants?
Virginia landlords must provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the time of lease signing. Common required disclosures include lead-based paint hazards (for pre-1978 buildings, a federal requirement), the identity of the landlord or property manager, and any known material defects in the property. Additional state-specific disclosures may include flood risk, mold hazards, and environmental conditions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Virginia lease requirements for rental properties?
Virginia recognizes both written and oral leases, though written leases are strongly recommended for terms longer than one year. Lease agreements should include the rent amount, payment due date, security deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding entry, pets, and subletting. Certain lease clauses that waive tenant statutory rights may be void and unenforceable under Virginia law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Virginia landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Virginia landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is fit for habitation and complies with applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes maintaining structural integrity, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and pest control. Tenants typically have the right to request repairs in writing, and if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, tenants may have legal remedies available.
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