VA · Tenant rights
Tenant Rights in Virginia
A plain-English overview of residential renter protections under Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) (Va. Code § 55.1-1200 et seq.). Use this as a checklist before you sign — then verify anything that looks off in your specific lease.
Key rules at a glance
- Security deposit return: 45 days after termination
- Landlord entry notice: 72 hours' / reasonable notice standards appear in VRLTA contexts — check current § 55.1 language and your lease
- Late fees: Late fees are limited under Virginia law (commonly the greater of 10% of the periodic rent or a modest flat amount for many tenancies) — verify the current statute.
What to check in a Virginia lease
- 45-day deposit return
- Late fee statutory limits
- Mold and disclosure addenda
- Application fee rules
Frequently asked questions
Does Virginia cap late fees?
Yes. The VRLTA includes late-fee limits for covered residential tenancies. Compare your lease charge to the current Va. Code § 55.1 provisions.
Before you sign
Statutes set the floor — your lease can still include junk fees, auto-renewals, one-sided indemnification, or deposit language that conflicts with Virginia law. Comparing the document to Va. Code § 55.1-1200 et seq. is the fastest way to spot problems early.
LeaseGuard.ai provides educational information only and is not a law firm. This page is not legal advice. For disputes or case-specific interpretation, contact a licensed Virginia attorney or your local legal aid office.
Also see our lease guides for clause-by-clause renter tips.