Virginia landlord-tenant laws.
Notable Virginia quirk
Pandemic-era rules still bite: the nonpayment notice is currently 14 days, not 5, and landlords owning more than four rental units must offer a payment plan before terminating (§ 55.1-1245(F)–(G), current version). Late fees are hard-capped at the lesser of 10% of rent or 10% of the balance due (§ 55.1-1204(E)).
Virginia landlord law FAQ
What is the maximum security deposit in Virginia?
No more than two months' periodic rent, however the deposit is labeled (§ 55.1-1226(A)). The VRLTA reaches virtually every residential rental, it applies to occupancy in all single-family and multifamily dwelling units (§ 55.1-1201(B)).
How long does a landlord have to return a deposit in Virginia?
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant vacates, with a written itemization of deductions (§ 55.1-1226(A)). Deductions taken during the tenancy must be itemized within 30 days of the determination, and willful noncompliance means returning the deposit plus actual damages and attorney fees (§ 55.1-1226).
Is there a cap on late fees in Virginia?
Yes, a hard one. A late charge is only enforceable if it is in the written rental agreement, and it cannot exceed the lesser of 10% of the periodic rent or 10% of the remaining balance due (§ 55.1-1204(E)). On a $100 unpaid balance, the maximum fee is $10 regardless of the rent.
How much notice before entering a rental in Virginia?
At least 72 hours' notice for routine maintenance the tenant has not requested; for other entries, notice of intent to enter and entry only at reasonable times. No notice is required in an emergency (§ 55.1-1229(A)).
Is there a grace period for rent in Virginia?
No statutory grace period, rent is due at the beginning of each month unless the lease says otherwise (§ 55.1-1204(D)). But the nonpayment notice is currently 14 days, not 5 (§ 55.1-1245(F)), and a landlord owning more than four rental units must first offer the tenant a payment plan (§ 55.1-1245(G), current version).
How much can a landlord charge for late rent in Virginia?
Capped at the lesser of 10% of the periodic rent or 10% of the remaining balance due. Grace period: None statutory, rent is due at the beginning of each month (§ 55.1-1204(D)); the nonpayment notice is currently 14 days (§ 55.1-1245(F)). Late fee terms should always be written into the lease.
What is the security deposit limit in Virginia?
2 months' rent. Deposit return deadline: 45 days.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a rental in Virginia?
72 hours (routine maintenance); reasonable notice otherwise.
Is there rent control in Virginia?
None statewide; VRLTA supersedes local landlord-tenant ordinances (§ 55.1-1201(E)).
Sources
Summarized from public statutes, state bar guides, and provincial residential tenancy acts. Last reviewed 2026-07-17. Deposit statute: Va. Code § 55.1-1226 (VRLTA). Late fee statute: Va. Code § 55.1-1204(E) (lesser of 10% of periodic rent or 10% of balance due; written lease required).
- Va. Code § 55.1-1226 (security deposits)
- Va. Code § 55.1-1204 (rent; late charges)
- Va. Code § 55.1-1229 (landlord access)
- Va. Code § 55.1-1245 (nonpayment notices)
- Va. Code § 16.1-122.2 (small claims jurisdiction)
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.