Virginia Landlord Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to your frequently asked questions

Important Disclaimer

The information provided below is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and regulations change periodically, and individual circumstances may affect how the law applies in a specific situation.

As of June 2, 2026, the information below is believed to be accurate based on publicly available Virginia statutes. However, landlords should always verify current laws before making decisions affecting their rental properties.

Cville Home Team, Whole Property Management, and their affiliates are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice. When legal questions arise, landlords should consult qualified legal counsel licensed in Virginia.

Official Virginia Law Resources:

• Where can I find Virginia landlord-tenant laws?

  Virginia landlord-tenant laws are primarily contained within the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), found in Chapter 12 of Title 55.1 of the Virginia Code.

  Source: Virginia Code Title 55.1, Chapter 12

• What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Virginia?

  As of June 2, 2026, Virginia law generally limits security deposits to no more than two months' rent.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1226

• How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit?

  As of June 2, 2026, landlords generally have 45 days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession to return the security deposit and/or provide an itemized list of deductions.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1226

• Can a landlord enter a rental property whenever they want?

  No. Except in emergencies, landlords generally must provide reasonable notice and may only enter at reasonable times.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1229

• How much notice does a tenant have to give before moving out?

  The answer depends on the lease agreement and tenancy type. Many leases require 30 or 60 days' written notice. Landlords should review their lease language carefully.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1253 and individual lease agreements

• Can landlords charge late fees?

  Yes. As of June 2, 2026, Virginia law generally limits late fees to the lesser of 10% of the periodic rent or 10% of the remaining balance due and owed.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1204

• What happens if a tenant fails to pay rent?

  Virginia law provides a legal process for pursuing unpaid rent and eviction. Landlords must follow required notice procedures before filing in court.

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1245

• Can a landlord refuse pets?

  Generally yes. However, service animals and assistance animals are not considered pets under Fair Housing laws and may require reasonable accommodation.

  Source: Federal Fair Housing Act; Virginia Fair Housing Law

• Is a written lease required?

  Virginia law recognizes certain verbal agreements, but a written lease is strongly recommended to establish clear expectations and responsibilities.

  Source: Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

• What are the most common mistakes landlords make?

  Common mistakes include:

  • Using outdated leases
  • Poor tenant screening
  • Improper security deposit handling
  • Inadequate documentation
  • Failing to stay current on legal changes

  Source: Industry best practices and Virginia landlord-tenant compliance guidance

• Can rent be increased at any time?

  Virginia does not have statewide rent control. However, rent generally cannot be increased during an active lease term unless allowed by the lease agreement.

  Source: Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

• How do I determine the right rental price?

  Rental pricing is typically based on:

  • Comparable rentals
  • Property condition
  • Location
  • Market demand
  • Time of year

  A professional rental analysis can help establish competitive pricing.

  Source: Market analysis and rental valuation practices

• What should landlords look for during tenant screening?

  Many landlords review:

  • Income verification
  • Employment history
  • Credit history
  • Rental history
  • Background checks where legally permissible

  Screening criteria should be applied consistently to all applicants.

  Source: Fair Housing guidance and industry best practices

• How much income should a tenant earn?

  Many landlords use a guideline of approximately three times the monthly rent in gross household income, though requirements vary.

  Source: Industry best practices

• Who is responsible for lawn care?

  Responsibility for lawn care should be clearly stated in the lease agreement. Virginia law generally allows the parties to assign this responsibility through the lease.

  Source: Lease agreement terms and Virginia landlord-tenant law

• What maintenance issues must a landlord handle?

  Landlords generally must maintain the property in a fit and habitable condition, including essential systems such as:

  • Plumbing
  • Electrical
  • Heating
  • Structural components

  Source: Virginia Code § 55.1-1220

• Can landlords require renters insurance?

  Generally yes. Many landlords require tenants to maintain renters insurance during the lease term.

  Source: Lease agreement terms and industry practices

• What is Fair Housing?

  Fair Housing laws prohibit discrimination based on protected characteristics. Landlords must apply policies and screening criteria consistently.

  Source: Federal Fair Housing Act and Virginia Fair Housing Law

• How often should a landlord inspect a rental property?

  Many landlords conduct inspections prior to move-in, periodically during tenancy, and at move-out.

  Regular inspections may help identify maintenance concerns before they become major repairs.

  Source: Property management best practices

• Is hiring a property manager worth it?

  Property management may be beneficial for landlords who prefer assistance with:

  • Marketing
  • Tenant screening
  • Rent collection
  • Maintenance coordination
  • Compliance
  • Inspections
  • Lease administration

  The decision depends on the owner's experience, time availability, and investment goals.

  Source: Property management industry practices

```

Final Reminder

As of June 2, 2026, the information above reflects our understanding of Virginia landlord-tenant requirements and common property management practices. However, laws change frequently and may differ based on individual circumstances.

Always verify current statutes and consult qualified legal counsel regarding legal questions.