Virginia eviction laws 2021. This summary does not modify your lease or Virginia law.

Virginia eviction laws 2021 Step-by-Step Eviction Process in Virginia Understanding the eviction process in Virginia is crucial for landlords who want to remove a tenant lawfully. Jul 1, 2020 · Such guest shall be exempt from this chapter, and the innkeeper or property owner, or his agent, shall have the right to use self-help eviction under Virginia law, without the necessity of the filing of an unlawful detainer action in a court of competent jurisdiction and the execution of a writ of eviction issued pursuant to such action, which Such guest shall be exempt from this chapter, and the innkeeper or property owner, or his agent, shall have the right to use self-help eviction under Virginia law, without the necessity of the filing of an unlawful detainer action in a court of competent jurisdiction and the execution of a writ of eviction issued pursuant to such action, which Sep 19, 2025 · In this article, we discuss the Virginia landlord-tenant laws that you should follow before enforcing your own rental policies. Virginia Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities under the Virginia Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act as of July 1, 2021 This is a summary of tenantsʼ rights and responsibilities under the Virginia Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act. 1889. Nondiscrimination under state grants and programs. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Fair housing laws prohibit eviction that is based on discrimination. In 2018, Virginia’s eviction rate was 14. In 2021, DHCD, through an allocation from the Virginia General Assembly, created the Virginia Eviction Reduction Pilot (VERP) Program to begin to develop a post-pandemic eviction response. § 19. Apr 14, 2021 · EVICTIONS: NON-PAYMENT OF RENT RIGHT OF REDEMPTION (1/3) As of July 1, 2019, tenants have four chances to pay rent late and stay under Virginia law: First chance is within grace period (if any) of lease. It is provided by the Virginia Poverty Law Center together with the Campaign to Reduce Evictions (CARE). . STEPS OF THE EVICTION PROCESS: STEP 1- NOTICE TO TENANT Due to changes in Virginia Law regarding notices given to Tenants during COVID 19, refer to Virginia Code 55. Second chance is after grace period ends and before landlord has filed eviction lawsuit. 3, would buy time for tenants to secure rental relief through a state-run program flush with federal aid. The page includes data about who is at risk of eviction, lawsuits being filed to evict people, and housing dynamics that can lead to evictions. Learn about rent increases, evictions, repairs, forms, and where to get legal help as a tenant in VA. Aug 23, 2025 · Grasp Virginia's eviction laws and discover the critical steps landlords and tenants must navigate to safeguard their rights. Many of these changes and associated tenant protections were tied to the Governor’s Declared State of Emergency due to the COVID -19 pandemic; those provisions are not included in this handbook, as they expired on June 30, 2021. Eviction of tenant Tenants and landlords need to know their rights and responsibilities under Virginia and Fairfax County laws. On Tuesday, however, the Court of Appeals of Virginia interpreted the federal CARES Act in relation to Virginia’s eviction laws. A summary can be found in the Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. At some point there was created a formal eviction proces See additional eligibility fliers. Virginia Landlord Starting July 1, 2021, all landlords must provide tenants with a Statement of Tenant Right and Responsibilities developed by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and posted on its website. 2-392. Includes deductions, returns, & regulations for rental properties. 1-1228 and 55. What changes have been made to the Virginia landlord-tenant laws in 2024? In 2024, Virginia's landlord-tenant laws saw updates to increase protections for tenants. They all were passed as a response to the high rate of evictions in Virginia, which are more than two times the national average. February 18, 2021 More than 4 years ago Aug 27, 2021 · A DCHS CONNECT NEWS HIGHLIGHT August 27, 2021-- A Supreme Court ruling today struck down the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) eviction moratorium extension, but the Virginia eviction protections are still in effect until June 30, 2022. Attorney General Mark Herring issued guidance Friday to help tenants and landlords navigate the new rules. This process ensures both parties have an opportunity to present their case while preventing unlawful evictions. The current expungement process in Virginia requires the individual charged with the offense to file a petition and fingerprints with the circuit court, pay a filing fee, and possibly attend a hearing on the matter. The general Assembly of the State of Virginia instituted eviction protections. The protection of tenants is facilitated by guiding the landlords on the timelines and processes they can use when evicting a tenant. 7%. 1-1315. The information below is not intended as Legal Aid Works®would like to thank (1) the Fredericksburg City Planning Office for helping us to fund the publication of this 2021-2022 Guide, (2) its summer law clerk Gabrielle Sandoval, rising 2L student at University at Richmond School of Law for her efforts in updating the state landlord-tenant law since the last guide in 2020-2021 and (3) summer interns Christian Taylor and Monzerrath Feb 17, 2021 · The CDC Order is currently effective until March 31, 2021, but continue to watch the Virginia REALTORS ® COVID-19 Resources page for any updates. It is staffed by legal aid attorneys along with dozens of volunteers including law students, undergraduate students, licensed attorneys, and Invest in Your Industry with NVRPAC Northern Virginia Realtors® Political Action Committee is a bi-partisan voice that protects the real estate industry from onerous laws and safeguards your bottom line by defending the business of buying and selling real estate from legislative and regulatory threats. All seven are more fair, favorable and friendly to tenants. (Effective July 1, 2026) Sealing defined; effect of sealing. Apr 25, 2025 · Learn about the eviction process in Virginia, including eviction laws and eviction defenses, to protect you, your tenant, and your property investment. Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Upon expiration of the 24 hour period after eviction, the landlord shall remove, or dispose of, any personal property remaining in the public right of way. As of September 2021, the Virginia Rent Relief Program has helped more than 70,900 low-income households stay housed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sealing of Criminal History Record Information and Court Records. A lease cannot give up a tenantʼs rights under the law. A lease cannot give up a tenants’ rights under the law. The CRRSA Act requires state Jun 21, 2025 · Navigating an eviction can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re uncertain about your rights, timelines, and what steps you need to take as a renter. They are required to give the tenants 30 days to comply with the lease Jul 1, 2025 · Such guest shall be exempt from this chapter, and the innkeeper or property owner, or his agent, shall have the right to use self-help eviction under Virginia law, without the necessity of the filing of an unlawful detainer action in a court of competent jurisdiction and the execution of a writ of eviction issued pursuant to such action, which Jun 14, 2023 · A library of detailed information about local, state and federal laws governing landlords, tenants, real estate investors, rental properties and residential property owners. Gain insight into the proper procedures to ensure compliance from start to finish. Employee leave is now permitted to attend eviction proceedings — this applies to all Virginia employers. The one year lease should automatically renew for another year unless the landlord or the tenant gives 60 days or more written notice to the other, before the lease is over. The Virginia legislature extended the effective date to July 1, 2026, during the 2025 legislative session. 1 - Property and Conveyances › Chapter 13 - Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act › § 55. Property and Conveyances » Subtitle III. (2021). Feb 18, 2021 · Social Issues Eviction is big business for this law firm. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Virginia’s 2021 and 2025 Record-Sealing Laws In 2021, the Virginia General Assembly passed a new law that will greatly expand eligibility for record sealing. Landlord Remedies » § 55. 5-40. Urban Institute. while the legislation died in committee in 2020 as the House and Senate couldn’t come to an agreement about the details Jul 16, 2025 · Dealing with tenant issues can be stressful, especially when it comes to the eviction process. states have ended eviction moratoriums except Washington D. The law would have also created a residential eviction diversion program to facilitate pre-eviction resolutions between landlords and tenants (Delaware General Assembly, 2021). Virginia law currently authorizes a petition-based process only for expungement of non-convictions from criminal history records (Virginia Code § 19. C. New Virginia eviction protections now through 6/30/22: Landlords may take no action to get possession or evict for nonpayment of rent – if the household has had financial hardship directly or indirectly due to COVID-19 – unless the landlord: Gives tenant a 14-day nonpayment notice informing tenant about the Rent Relief Program (RRP), and During the 14-day period, applies for RRP on the Feb 28, 2025 · When Virginia's Clean Slate Law was originally passed in 2021 the effective date was scheduled for July 1, 2025. Code of Virginia Table of Contents » Title 55. § 55. In Virginia, though, state law is still in place that will provide some substantial protections for tenants while still allowing for landlords to receive compensation. It provides legal information, brief legal advice, and referrals to other services. Jul 1, 2022 · The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) handbook provides information on the rights, remedies, and responsibilities of landlords and renters concerning the rental process. Mar 15, 2021 · Landlords and tenants may save time and money using mediation to address unpaid rents due to financial difficulties caused by covid. 01-471. 2. In Virginia, the eviction process is regulated by state law to ensure fairness for both renters and landlords. 1. The information below is not intended as The MHLRA requires the landlord to offer you a one year lease. Generally, the To receive notification from the Supreme Court of Virginia and the Court of Appeals of Virginia when opinions, orders, rule changes, dockets and other information has become available, please enter your contact information below. 7 NEW LAWS THAT ARE MORE FAIR, FAVORABLE & FRIENDLY TO TENANTS - PDF Document Starting July 1, 2019, seven new laws will take effect in Virginia. In Virginia, eligible non-public schools are K-12 private schools with state-recognized accreditation through the Virginia Council on Private Education (VCPE) and private schools that certify compliance with the state laws that apply to schools accredited through VCPE. 1-1311, a landlord may evict a tenant only for violation of the applicable building and housing code caused by a lack of reasonable care by the tenant, a member of the tenant's household, or a guest or invitee of the tenant. The CDC eviction moratorium ended July 31, but the entity extended a portion of the protections for areas Apr 12, 2021 · The Eviction Legal Helpline is based in Virginia, beginning in January 2019. There was very limited data available to analyze for this interim report. Aug 21, 2025 · Following the proper process helps ensure compliance with Virginia landlord-tenant laws, protects property rights, and maintains fairness for both parties. Chapter 23. & Parrott, J. The laws and regulations covering multifamily residential units, single family rentals if the owner owns more than 4 single family residences or condominiums and most apartments are included in the Virginia Residential Landlord and Aug 10, 2021 · Fairfax County, Virginia - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an extension for its eviction moratorium through October 3, 2021. Within Jul 1, 2021 · Through Advocacy, Education, Litigation the Virginia Poverty Law Center (VPLC) breaks down systemic barriers keeping low-income Virginians in the cycle of poverty Use this eviction guide to protect yourself and your home. Sealing of Criminal History Record Information and Court Records Chapter Create a Report Print Search Chapter The CDC’s most recent order extends the residential eviction ban until July 31, 2021. Time period for issuing writs of eviction in unlawful entry and detainer; when returnable Virginia implemented a state-wide eviction moratorium between March 16, 2020 and June 28, 2020. In addition to the remedies provided by §§ 55. The information below is not Aug 10, 2021 · A reference of Virginia eviction laws, and steps of the Virginia eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. Summons for Unlawful Detainer: The first step is for the landlord to obtain and fill out a "Summons for Unlawful Detainer" from the Clerk of the General District Court in the Arlington County Court House (room 2500, 703-228-7900). 1, 2021 During Governor’s Declared State of Emergency Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic (In effect) Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 55. This chapter presents trends on mortgage delinquency, eviction filings, and homelessness throughout Virginia. Generally, the Sep 13, 2021 · The new sealing July 1, 2025, or earlier processes if possible take effect on Automatic sealing Sealing of Convictions of convictions and deferred dismissals Petition-based Post-July 2025 non-convictions sealing of convictions and deferred dismissals infractions 2025 non-convictions Sealing of Convictions Restricting dissemination information of contained criminal in the Central record Know Your Rights & Responsibilities Tenant Toolkit As a renter or as a landlord, there are certain rights and responsibilities that come with renting a home in Virginia. STEP 2- WARRANT IN UNLAWFUL DETAINER After the 5-day period of notice (or 30 day notice) has expired and the landlord has not received satisfaction, the landlord may obtain a Warrant in Unlawful Detainer from the Civil Mar 5, 2021 · From Gov. The temporary moratorium on evictions extends vital protections to tens of millions of renters at risk of eviction for nonpayment of rent during the global pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the Virginia Governor declaring a State of Emergency on March 12 Sep 15, 2021 · With that, the federal eviction protections that had been in place were wiped away. 1 for more information Jul 15, 2024 · New Virginia Expungement and Sealing Laws | Prior to April 2021, Virginia was one of the most challenging states to get records sealed. The new legislation addresses several Brush up on your knowledge of West Virginia’s landlord-tenant laws in this complete guide on rental topics like leases, rent payments, and evictions. Jul 1, 2021 · In 2021, there were further changes to Virginia’s Landlord-Tenant laws. Nov 30, 2023 · The law would have also created a residential eviction diversion program to facilitate pre-eviction resolutions between landlords and tenants (Delaware General Assembly, 2021). Today—July 1, 2022—marks the effective date for a handful of new Virginia laws that public and private employers should note. These were again renewed from August 10, 2021 to June 30 2021 Code of Virginia Title 55. Both entities imposed laws prohibiting landlords from evicting a tenant or obtaining possession of a housing unit due to hurdles caused by COVID-19. More Oct 28, 2020 · A reference of Virginia landlord-tenant laws, Virginia eviction laws, and Virginia renters’ rights updated 2023. The information below is not intended as § 55. That means feudal lords killing each other over land or whatever practical outcome. This became effective when the governor signed the budget. Discover the legal eviction process on how to evict a tenant in West Virginia as fast as possible (without hiring a lawyer). Jun 7, 2025 · In Virginia, domestic violence victims have specific protections concerning housing, including provisions related to evictions and foreclosures. 9% (about 14. ” Virginia remains the best rent relief program in the nation having spent a higher percentage of available funds than any other state – the National Apartment Association cited it as one of the two best, with clear eligibility and application processes Tenants’ Rights: After Jan. Housing insecurity and the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason being the tenants are protected from sudden eviction through these laws. Eviction of tenant. Mar 15, 2021 · A federal eviction moratorium issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is in effect from September 4, 2020 to March 31, 2021. Tenants in Virginia have the legal right to live in your rental home, unless your landlord has followed the legal process for eviction and gotten an official order to evict you. ABSTRACT In 2018, Virginia’s eviction crisis received national attention. It is a phone line and email line aimed at tenants facing eviction or lease termination. Get the information and resources you need to protect your tenant rights. Feb 12, 2025 · Understand the process and legalities of issuing a 30-day notice to vacate in Virginia for tenants without a lease, including tenant rights and remedies. 1-1200. Within weeks, orders to shelter-in-place became effective and within a few short months, thousands of Virginians had become unemployed. Feb 12, 2025 · Discover up-to-date Virginia eviction laws landlords and property managers, plus step-by-step instructions on how to evict tenants in Virginia. Mar 18, 2025 · Virginia law also allows tenants to use a “pay and stay” defense, meaning they can remain in the property if they pay all owed rent, late fees, and court costs before eviction enforcement. A. This summary does not modify your lease or Virginia law. First, implementation or the effective date has been delayed until July 1, 2026. Understanding each stage—and the time frames involved—will help you protect your interests if you receive an eviction notice. Further protections restricting the circumstances under which evictions could be filed were in place from August 10, 2020 to September 7, 2020, and then from January 1, 2021 to June 30, 2021. These were again renewed from August 10, 2021 to June 30 Aug 11, 2021 · A reference of West Virginia eviction laws, and steps of the West Virginia eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. The Current Expungement Law Although the new law does not take effect until 2025, individuals can take advantage of Virginia’s existing expungement laws. , which maintains limited This is general legal information, not legal advice from an attorney. Tenant pays rent, and may do this any number of times. 5 days ago · The ERA2 program was authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and provides $21. Current status: As of 2024, all U. Averting an Eviction Crisis. It is filled with free forms, resources, and helpful links specific to the state of Virginia. Ralph Northam's office: Virginia Works to Mitigate Evictions Crisis, Implement Long-Term Solutions to Increase Housing Stability ~ Pilot program will award $2. Expungement had also been a priority during the 2020 special session where the House and Senate each offered very different bills. You have the right to remain in your rental home until the The Virginia Rent Relief Program (RRP), formerly the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program, continues to provide rental assistance to families impacted by COVID-19 and has served as a national model for other programs. If a landlord tries to make you leave your home without an official court order, it is illegal. The federal eviction moratorium, does, however, have significant shortcomings that undermine its New forms covering civil litigation, commercial litiga-tion, criminal, civil matters, and real estate transactions (see below for details). Federal timeline: The federal eviction moratorium ended on August 26, 2021, leaving decisions to state and local authorities. Understanding West Virginia eviction laws is crucial. Curious about the legal intricacies? The following is the applicable language: That beginning on July l, 2022, the Virginia Housing Commission shall evaluate data submitted by the Office of the Executive Secretary of the Virginia Supreme Court relating to the eviction diversion pilot program. Landlord Tenant Rights Additional breakdowns of landlord tenant laws by area: Security Deposits – limits on the maximum deposit charge, deadlines for refunds and more. No person with a disability who is otherwise qualified shall on the basis of his disability be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving state financial assistance or under any program or 2021 Code of Virginia Title 8. In 2025, the General Assembly amended that law in several ways. cities and 3 of the top 5 highest eviction Dec 12, 2024 · Eviction moratoriums: Federal and state-level bans temporarily paused evictions during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect struggling tenants. Aug 17, 2021 · Last year, the state imposed a budget bill in conjunction with the Center for Disease Control’s eviction moratorium to protect renters. Intervention to prevent these crises must be a priority; inaction compounds stresses The legal eviction process on how to evict a tenant in Virginia as fast as possible (without hiring a lawyer). Chapter 9. 1-1245. Apr 1, 2022 · The new law has staggered effects to allow courts and the Virginia State Police to gear up for this immense change, but the new law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025. (Effective the later of July 1, 2028, or seven years after the COVID-19 pandemic state of emergency expires) Noncompliance with rental agreement; monetary penalty Section Print Apr 9, 2025 · Major Changes Made to Virginia’s New “Expungement Law” What to Know From 2025 Legislative Session The Virginia legislature has made significant changes to Virginia’s new criminal record sealing laws, also often referred to as Virginia’s new “expungement law “or Clean Slate Law. A summary of these right and responsibilities can be found by clicking on the Statement of Tenant Rights and Jul 1, 2025 · Virginia Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act as of July 1, 2025 This is a summary of tenants’ rights and responsibilities under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Under Virginia’s current expungement law, even with the help of a lawyer, expunging a criminal record often takes at least nine months, and sometimes much longer. Jul 28, 2021 · Different laws apply to residential and commercial evictions, and notice requirements differ in each case for Virginia Eviction Laws. § 51. The VRLTA applies to most residential rental properties in Virginia. Jun 29, 2021 · The 14-day notice established in the eviction budget language and the requirement to offer the option of a payment plan prior to filing for an Unlawful Detainer also continue to exist in the Virginia Code until July 1, 2022 as written into H. Criminal Procedure » Chapter 23. Over the next three legislative sessions in 2019, 2020, and 2021, more than two dozen laws were enacted—a few on a temporary basis but most on a permanent basis—to be more fair, favorable, and friendly to tenants. This is a summary of tenantsʼ rights and responsibilities under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Notice to tenant in event of foreclosure. 22 All of these laws should be understood in the context of Virginia’s laws more generally: most significantly, the fact that Virginia is a Dillon Rule state, which limits action by local governments to that specifically delegated by the Mar 25, 2021 · There are 488 accredited K-12 private schools in Virginia serving approximately 112,000 students. Right to Counsel Laws Right to counsel laws guarantee that tenants who are facing eviction will have legal representation in court. Zandi, M. Jul 1, 2022 · Need an overview of Virginia's employment laws? Get Your Free Guide here. Another reason there were fewer eviction proceedings during this time period is that the Governor declared a state of emergency related to the COVID-19 Pandemic, This was in effect until June 30, 2021. Virginia law, which was passed in November 2020, is effective until the end of the State of Emergency. 1-1237. These changes aim to create a more equitable and transparent rental market, benefiting both tenants and responsible landlords. S. Jun 21, 2025 · Find your essential renter rights in Virginia. If you’re looking for information specific to tenant screening in Virginia, be sure to check out our Virginia Tenant Screening Guide. As part of the 2020-2022 budget bill, the Virginia General Assembly enacted restrictions on rent-related evictions that took effect on January 1, 2021. Eviction Process – how the eviction process […] Code of Virginia Table of Contents » Title 19. You are a tenant if you pay regular amounts of rent during regular time periods, such as once a month or once a week. Such guest shall be exempt from this chapter, and the innkeeper or property owner, or his agent, shall have the right to use self-help eviction under Virginia law, without the necessity of the filing of an unlawful detainer action in a court of competent jurisdiction and the execution of a writ of eviction issued pursuant to such action, which Virginia Landlord Handbook Virginia has some specific landlord laws and renter laws that it’s important to observe as your rental properties grow. As of July 1, 2020, all landlords must offer the Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities to tenants entering new or renewed leases. Jul 21, 2025 · In Virginia, eviction is a formal legal process with required steps for landlords. Sep 8, 2025 · Take Note: The amendment is not retroactive, meaning claims can potentially still be brought for overtime violations between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022 under the original VOWA. Code of Virginia Table of Contents » Title 19. To this end, LSC partnered with the Center for Public Health Law Research at Temple Rental assistance and eviction prevention programs Virginia has made major strides to get assistance to low-income renters and unstably housed persons, in addition to addressing the eviction crisis. Jun 24, 2024 · In 2024, three states – Hawai’i, Illinois, and Virginia – introduced such laws, but none of the three states secured the passage of the legislation. 01 - Civil Remedies and Procedure Chapter 18 - Executions and Other Means of Recovery § 8. Such guest shall be exempt from this chapter, and the innkeeper or property owner, or his agent, shall have the right to use self-help eviction under Virginia law, without the necessity of the filing of an unlawful detainer action in a court of competent jurisdiction and the execution of a writ of eviction issued pursuant to such action, which This chapter presents trends on mortgage delinquency, eviction filings, and homelessness throughout Virginia. Also see Virginia Code 55-237. com As part of the latest Coronavirus relief package, Congress extended the CDC eviction moratorium through January 31. You also are a tenant if you have lived in a hotel or motel for more than 90 days, or you are subject to a written lease for a period of more May 13, 2021 · Originally, eviction was handled as a normal civil tort. Because the new law includes automatic sealing, some records will be sealed on a monthly basis, as soon as they become eligible. To mitigate the spread, federal, state, and local entities issued eviction moratoria, provided financial Oct 4, 2025 · Learn the essential steps and laws landlords should know about eviction in Virginia to ensure compliance and protect your rental business. The information below is not intended as Explore crucial Virginia landlord-tenant laws, rights, and regulations in this comprehensive guide covering rental topics such as lease agreements, rent, and eviction. Are you looking for detailed information about housing, evictions, and court filings? Explore this guide to national, statewide, and local eviction data sources. Aug 11, 2021 · A reference of West Virginia eviction laws, and steps of the West Virginia eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. 6 million in grants to build local capacity for eviction reduction services in highly impacted localities, address immediate and post-pandemic needs ~ RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced the new Virginia Eviction Apr 16, 2021 · New housing discrimination protections ban Virginia landlords from turning down potential tenants because of their source of income. Also, during the 2020 Reconvened Session, House Bill 340, Virginia Code § 44-209 was passed. After January 1, 2021, the budget requires landlords and tenants to work together to access rent assistance, including Virginia eviction laws are fair, and they all address the rights of both the tenants and landlords. Tenants say it buries them with unfair fees. Introduction As directed by Congress, a key component of Legal Services Corporation’s (LSC) Effect of State & Local Laws on Evictions Study is to better understand the significant variation in eviction laws and procedures across the United States and the impact this variation has on eviction outcomes. 2). If the information you need is not here Dec 19, 2022 · Find out if there's an eviction ban or utility shutoff moratorium where you live. The Commonwealth’s efficiency in deploying these In 2021 alone, states and localities passed or implemented over 130 new laws or policies to protect tenants from eviction and keep them stably housed. B. As a renter, there are certain rights and responsibilities that come with renting a home in Virginia. Nov 1, 2025 · Virginia implemented a state-wide eviction moratorium between March 16, 2020 and June 28, 2020. Eviction is the process by which a landlord obtains possession of the rental property by entering a law suit against the tenant and receiving judgment from the court directing the tenant to leave the property and pay back any rent, damage claims, and the costs of the court process. Virginia had 5 of the top 10 highest eviction rates among large U. This information answers many of the questions frequently asked about tenant-landlord situations. Dec 9, 2024 · Tenant Rights Under the New Laws The 2025 Virginia rental law updates significantly bolster tenant rights, offering enhanced protections against unfair practices and providing clearer guidelines for landlord-tenant interactions. It is recommended that owners of rental property obtain a copy of the applicable law: (for most landlords Virginia Code 55-248. 9 evictions filed for every 100 renter households) while the national average was 7. Landlords must adhere to stricter timelines for addressing repairs and maintenance. The budget prohibits evictions for non-payment of rent through December 31, 2020, which is stronger than current federal protections. From October 2022 to November 2023 there were 136,295 filings in Virginia. The Virginia eviction process has a number of eviction notices with differing periods of compliance or demands to vacate depending on the reason for the eviction. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act » Article 5. There are 466 eviction filings on an average day in Virginia. Introduction Under Virginia law, tenants have certain rights when they move in, while they are renting, and before they can be evicted. The Consumer Affairs Branch offers this information to help you understand what you need to know in order to have a successful rental relationship. The 2020 and 2021 sessions included many COVID-19 protections. Aug 6, 2024 · It’s another Thursday with no new opinions or orders from the Supreme Court of Virginia. Rental types, like short-term and mid-term, are also addressed under these laws. Waugh Law & Mediation provides mediation services in Virginia. The 2025 guide to Virginia security deposit laws for property managers or landlords. "Application deposit Jul 1, 2025 · Tenants and landlords have legal protections under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA). Rental Conveyances » Chapter 12. See full list on ipropertymanagement. 5. As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Ancillary matter" means any (i) violation or alleged violation of the terms and conditions of a suspended sentence, probation, or parole; (ii) violation or Aug 4, 2021 · In Virginia, tenant advocates and attorneys who aid families facing eviction said the 60-day federal order, lasting through Oct. Less than a year after the 2019 evictions legislation became effective, the first cases of the coronavirus pandemic were reported in the commonwealth. 55 billion to assist eligible households with financial assistance, provide housing stability services, and as applicable, to cover the costs for other affordable rental housing and eviction prevention activities. 1 - Property and Conveyances Chapter 13 - Manufactured Home Lot Rental Act § 55. The Supreme Court reversed the judgment of the circuit court holding that the owners of an easement were not indispensable parties to a boundary adjustment suit filed by their neighbors, holding that, under the facts and circumstances, the holders of the easement were necessary parties. Second, the Virginia Aug 10, 2021 · A reference of Virginia eviction laws, and steps of the Virginia eviction process for landlords and renters, updated 2021. When can a Virginia Landlord Proceed with an Evictions Filing? Despite giving a grace period and as much support as possible to tenants, a Virginia landlord might still need to move forward with an eviction. The landlord may offer shorter leases than a year and may offer a month-to-month lease, but the tenant is supposed to have the choice between the one year Evictions in Richmond are governed by a number of different bodies of law, listed in the chart below. Nov 1, 2021 · This newly enacted piece of legislation in Virginia athwarts an eviction protection law implemented in the summer of 2021 that stated, “Landlords must provide 14-days of nonpayment notice before pursuing evictions (up from five). Definitions As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning: "Action" means any recoupment, counterclaim, setoff, or other civil action and any other proceeding in which rights are determined, including actions for possession, rent, unlawful detainer, unlawful entry, and distress for rent. Justia › US Law › US Codes and Statutes › Code of Virginia › 2023 Code of Virginia › Title 55. Expungement Reform: Giving People a Second Chance Expungement reform was adopted by the General Assembly as the 2021 session wound to a close. The landlord of a dwelling unit used as a single-family residence shall give written notice to the tenant or any prospective tenant of such dwelling unit that the landlord has received a notice of a mortgage default, mortgage acceleration, or foreclosure sale relative to the loan on the dwelling unit within five business days after However, full payment of all amounts you owe the landlord, including all rent as contracted for in the rental agreement that is owed to the landlord as of the date payment is made, as well as any damages, money judgment, award of attorney fees, and court costs made at least 48 hours before the scheduled eviction will cause the eviction to be Oct 28, 2020 · These references were compiled from the Code of West Virginia and various online sources to serve as a reference and for people wanting to learn about West Virginia landlord-tenant laws, West Virginia eviction laws, and West Virginia renters’ rights. uxnyb cfpbqck hdlkwut klcte qipv woiwuz rjl arjkb kfpdf ciub umvjy rinutdx htoq jcqalbjd memey