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VA · LEASE-AGMT · Updated July 2026 · Free

Virginia Lease Agreement

Not Attorney-ReviewedAuthor: Arjun AnnamalaiMethodology: Statutory Verification

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Virginia at a glance: Security Deposit Limit: 2 months' rent · Deposit Return Deadline: 45 days after move-out · Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month: 30 days

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Overview

Lease Agreements in Virginia

Virginia landlord-tenant law is governed by Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1200 to 55.1-1262 (Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — VRLTA). Virginia caps security deposits at two months' rent and requires them returned within 45 days. Virginia preempts local rent control ordinances, so no Virginia city can enact rent control. Evictions begin with a 5-day pay-or-quit notice for non-payment.
Key Facts

Virginia Lease Agreement — Quick Reference

RequirementVirginia Rule
Security Deposit Limit2 months' rent
Deposit Return Deadline45 days after move-out
Notice to Terminate Month-to-Month30 days
Eviction Notice (Non-Payment)5-Day Pay or Quit Notice
Rent ControlProhibited by state law
Governing LawVa. Code Ann. § 55.1-1200 (VRLTA)
Legal Requirements

Virginia Legal Requirements

  • Security deposit capped at 2 months' rent.
  • Deposits must be returned within 45 days with itemized deductions.
  • Lead paint disclosure required for pre-1978 properties.
  • 24 hours' advance notice required before landlord entry.
  • Landlords must maintain the property in compliance with the VRLTA habitability standards.
Governing Laws

Virginia Governing Laws

Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1226
Security Deposits
Limits deposits to 2 months' rent and requires return within 45 days with itemized deductions. Landlord forfeits right to deductions if not timely provided.
Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245
Landlord Remedies — Non-Payment
Requires a 5-day pay-or-quit notice before the landlord may file an unlawful detainer action for non-payment.

Read the full text of these laws at Cornell Law School's Virginia legal resources or your state legislature's official website.

Questions & Answers

Virginia Lease Agreement — Frequently Asked Questions

What is Virginia's security deposit limit?

Virginia caps security deposits at two months' rent. The deposit must be returned within 45 days of move-out with a written itemized statement of deductions.

Does Virginia have rent control?

No. Virginia state law preempts local rent control ordinances. As of 2020, no Virginia locality may enact rent control.

What is the eviction process in Virginia?

For non-payment, Virginia requires a 5-day pay-or-quit notice. If unpaid, the landlord files an unlawful detainer action in General District Court. Virginia courts typically schedule hearings within 21 days of filing.