Landlord & Tenant Laws in Virginia.

If you want to attend the move-out inspection, request it in writing. Keep inspection notices, the lease, proof of deposit payment, and move-out photos.

If the amount sought is within Virginia’s small claims division limit, a tenant may file there. Larger deposit disputes may still be brought in General District Court subject to that court’s higher civil jurisdiction.

A Virginia landlord generally may not demand or receive a security deposit in an amount greater than two months’ periodic rent.

A Virginia landlord generally must return the security deposit within 45 days after termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession, together with a written itemization of any lawful deductions.

Virginia gives the tenant a right to be present at a move-out inspection if properly requested and noticed, and the landlord must provide an itemized list of damages identified through the process.

If a landlord wrongfully withholds a security deposit in bad faith, Virginia law may allow recovery of actual damages and reasonable attorney’s fees in the right case.