Landlord Responsibilities in Virginia: What You Must Know
When you own a rental property in Virginia, a U.S. state with specific landlord-tenant laws that protect both sides of the rental agreement. Also known as the Commonwealth of Virginia, it enforces clear rules that define what landlords must do — and what they can’t skip. Being a landlord isn’t just about collecting rent. It’s about meeting legal obligations that keep your tenants safe, your property in good shape, and your business out of court.
One of the biggest responsibilities is property maintenance, the duty to keep rental units habitable and safe for tenants. Virginia law requires landlords to provide working heat, running water, electricity, and structural integrity. If the roof leaks, the heater breaks, or the plumbing fails, you have to fix it — and you have to fix it fast. Delaying repairs can lead to tenant complaints, code violations, or even rent withholding. You also can’t just show up anytime. You must give 24 hours’ notice before entering, unless it’s an emergency.
Then there’s the security deposit, a financial safeguard landlords can collect but must handle with strict rules. In Virginia, you can’t charge more than two months’ rent as a deposit. You have 45 days after the tenant moves out to return it — or send a written list of deductions with receipts. No vague reasons. No hiding money. And you must store it in a separate account. Miss any of these steps, and you could owe the tenant double the deposit plus court fees.
Another key area is lease agreements, the written contract that outlines rent, rules, and responsibilities. Virginia doesn’t require leases to be in writing for terms under one year, but it’s always smarter to have one. Your lease must include the names of all parties, rent amount, due date, and rules about pets, smoking, or subletting. If you add new rules mid-lease, you need the tenant’s written consent. And you can’t evict someone without a court order — no lockouts, no shutting off utilities.
Virginia also has rules around disclosures, information landlords must give tenants before they move in. You must tell them if the property was built before 1978 (lead paint risk), if there’s a mold problem, or if the unit has been flooded in the past. You also have to give them the name and address of the property owner or manager. Skip these, and you risk invalidating your lease or facing penalties.
And don’t forget about landlord responsibilities when it comes to discrimination. Federal and Virginia law forbid refusing tenants based on race, religion, gender, disability, or family status. Even if you don’t like the sound of someone’s name or think they’re "too messy," you can’t turn them away. Fair housing isn’t optional.
These rules aren’t suggestions — they’re enforceable by law. Tenants can sue for damages, and state agencies can fine you. But if you follow them, you build trust, reduce turnover, and protect your investment. The posts below cover real cases, common mistakes, and how to handle everything from mold complaints to eviction notices — all based on actual Virginia laws and tenant experiences. You’ll find checklists, templates, and step-by-step guides to keep your rentals running smoothly — and legally.
What Are My Rights as a Renter in Virginia? A Clear Guide for Tenants
Know your rights as a renter in Virginia: security deposit rules, repair responsibilities, eviction protections, and how to handle landlord violations. A clear, practical guide for tenants.
- December 1 2025
- Archer Hollings
- 0 Comments