Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
Virginia Landlord-Tenant Laws
Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) applies to most residential rentals and was significantly updated in recent years. The first nonpayment in a 12-month period requires a 14-day notice; repeat nonpayment gets a 5-day notice.
Key Rules at a Glance
Security Deposit Limit
2 months' rent
Hard cap statewide.
Deposit Return Deadline
45 days
With itemized written statement of deductions.
Notice to Enter
24 hours
Written notice required before non-emergency entry.
Rent Increase Notice
30 days (month-to-month)
Written notice at least 30 days before a rent increase.
Late Fee Cap
10% of rent or $50 (whichever is greater)
5-day grace period — cannot charge late fee before day 5. Must be in the lease.
Nonpayment Eviction Notice
14 days (1st occurrence) / 5 days (repeat)
First nonpayment in 12 months requires a 14-day pay or quit. Subsequent nonpayments within 12 months require only a 5-day notice.
Lease Termination (Month-to-Month)
30 days
Either party may terminate with 30 days written notice.
Disclaimer:Virginia's VRLTA has been updated multiple times in recent years. The tiered nonpayment notice system (14 days vs. 5 days) is commonly misunderstood. Consult a Virginia landlord-tenant attorney.
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Open →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eviction notice period in Virginia for non-payment?
14 days for the first nonpayment in a 12-month period. If the same tenant is late again within the same 12 months, only a 5-day notice is required.
What is the security deposit limit in Virginia?
Two months' rent. It must be returned within 45 days of move-out with an itemized statement.
What is the late fee cap in Virginia?
The greater of 10% of the monthly rent or $50. A 5-day grace period applies — no late fee may be charged before day 5.