For issues not involving safety, you should advise the landlord in writing of the specific items needing repair. The letter should state that the landlord has a reasonable amount of time not to exceed thirty days, from the date of receipt to make the repairs. You should consider sending the letter via certified mail so the delivery date is noted. … Read More

Eviction is the process by which a landlord obtains possession of the rental property by entering a lawsuit against the tenant and receiving a judgment from the court directing the tenant to leave the property and pay back any rent, pay any damage claims and pay the costs of the court process. If your landlord is trying to evict you, … Read More

Landlords cannot increase rent during the lease period, but can increase rent at the end of the lease period by any amount they choose.  There is no cap on the amount of increase.  You should contact your landlord prior to the end of the lease to determine if there will be an increase and, if so, how much. Landlords should … Read More

Landlords cannot increase rent during the lease period, but can increase rent at the end of the lease period by any amount they choose. There is no cap on the amount of increase. You should contact your landlord prior to the end of the lease to determine if there will be an increase and, if so, how much. Landlords should … Read More

The Security Deposit is held to pay for items damaged beyond reasonable wear and for any late or unpaid bills or fees.  The landlord has 45 days after termination of lease and delivery of possession of the Premises to inspect the unit, make any qualifying repairs, and return to you the remaining balance in an itemized, written notice plus interest, if … Read More

If you are on active duty or a civilian employee with the military, you may qualify for early termination of the rental agreement pursuant to Section 55-248.21:1 of the Act. This section addresses early termination by persons receiving orders to relocate at least 35 miles away from their current address and it also covers persons leaving active service. You are … Read More

Your landlord may gain access to the property to make repairs, inspect the property or to show the property to prospective buyers or tenants.  In these cases, the tenant may not unreasonably withhold access to the property.  In cases where access is denied, either party may bring a civil action in General District Court to remedy the issue. Section 55-248.10:1 … Read More

The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (“the Act”), Sections 55-248.2 through 55-248.40 of the Code of Virginia, establishes the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Only the courts can enforce those rights and responsibilities. The organizations listed below may provide additional information about the Act or to assist you with rental issues.  Please be aware … Read More

You will be notified and immediate payment is expected in the form of secured funds, either money order, or cashier’s check. You will be charged with a NSF Check Fee and, if the ‘NSF’ transaction occurs after the 5th of the month, a 10% late fee will be assessed. Additionally, a civil recovery fee of up to $250 may be … Read More

Rent is credited to the longest outstanding balance first. For instance, if you have an outstanding balance of $150 on the last day of the month and you pay your normal rent for the following month the next day, your payment will be credited toward the $150 delinquency first before being credited toward the following month’s rent.  If you do … Read More