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Key Takeaways
Landlords in Virginia must use the updated “Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities” form for leases on or after July 1, 2025.
Leases must display on the first page the security deposit amount, rent amount, and any one-time charge due before move-in, with a clear statement prohibiting unlisted charges after July 1, 2025.
Landlords must maintain habitability, provide required utilities, make timely repairs, and give at least 72 hours’ written notice before entering a tenant’s unit for non-emergency reasons.
The eviction process in 2025 includes expanded eviction-diversion programs available through Virginia courts.
Landlords must comply with the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) and keep up to date with new legislative changes enacted in 2025.
Being a landlord in Virginia comes with serious legal responsibilities, especially as new rental laws take effect in 2025. These laws are designed to promote transparency, fairness, and accountability between landlords and tenants. From updated lease requirements and disclosures to new eviction-diversion programs, understanding the current Virginia rental regulations is crucial for protecting your investment and maintaining compliance.
This guide outlines everything landlords need to know about Virginia’s 2025 rental laws, providing a clear overview of key updates and practical steps to stay compliant.
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Scope of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)
What the Act Covers
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), found in Sections 55.1-1200 through 55.1-1262 of the Code of Virginia, governs residential rental agreements across the state. (law.lis.virginia.gov) It applies to most rental properties, including single-family homes, apartments, and multi-unit dwellings. Some exceptions exist for owner-occupied buildings with two or fewer rental units. (dhcd.virginia.gov)
Why It Matters for Landlords
If your property falls under the VRLTA, every lease term, disclosure, and notice must follow the statute’s requirements. Violations can lead to tenant claims, rent abatement, or court penalties.
Lease Agreements and Disclosure Requirements
Written Rental Agreements
While oral agreements may technically exist, the VRLTA requires written leases to ensure enforceability and clarity. Tenants must receive a copy of their lease before move-in. (dhcd.virginia.gov) The 2025 Legal Aid Works Housing Guide also confirms that landlords must provide written terms and conditions before the tenant occupies the unit. (legalaidworks.org)
First-Page Disclosure Rule (Effective July 1, 2025)
Starting July 1, 2025, every residential lease must display the following on the first page:
The security deposit amount
The monthly rent and payment period
Any one-time charges due before or at move-in
It must also include this exact statement:
“No additional security deposits or rent shall be charged unless they are listed below or incorporated into this agreement by way of a separate addendum after execution of this rental agreement.”
This law aims to prevent hidden fees and enhance transparency.
Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Landlords must provide tenants with the latest version of the “Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities” from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Both parties must sign an acknowledgment of receipt. The 2025 version must be used for all new leases after July 1, 2025.
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Other Required Disclosures
Landlords must also disclose:
The name and address of the property owner or managing agent.
Any known defective drywall or mold conditions.
Utility billing methods if submetering or ratio billing is used.
A notice that the landlord’s insurance does not cover the tenant’s personal belongings. (§55.1-1226(B))
Security Deposits, Rent, and Fees
Security Deposit Rules
Under §55.1-1226, landlords can collect a security deposit, but it must:
Be held in a separate account identified as tenant funds.
Have written itemized deductions provided within 30 days.
Be returned within 45 days after the tenant vacates the property.
If the tenant fails to provide a forwarding address, landlords may send unclaimed funds to the state treasury after one year. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Rent Payments and Late Fees
Rent is due as stated in the lease. Virginia law allows landlords to charge late fees only if they are clearly outlined in the lease agreement. If a rent payment fails due to insufficient funds, the landlord must provide at least five days’ written notice before terminating the lease. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
Application Fees and Transparency
Application fees cannot exceed $50 per applicant, excluding third-party screening costs. Nonrefundable application fees must be disclosed in writing. Additionally, new laws in 2025 require landlords to give written notice when a lease will not be renewed. (nlihc.org)
Habitability, Repairs, and Entry Rights
Landlord’s Responsibilities
Virginia law requires landlords to maintain rental units in habitable condition. This includes:
Keeping the property structurally safe.
Maintaining plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
Complying with local building and housing codes.
For manufactured home parks, §55.1-1303 outlines additional obligations for utilities and common areas.
Tenant’s Rights and Remedies
Tenants must use the property reasonably and report repair issues in writing. If a landlord fails to fix a health or safety issue after reasonable notice, the tenant may seek damages, rent reduction, or terminate the lease.
Entry Notice Requirements
Landlords must give at least 72 hours’ written notice before entering the unit for non-emergency reasons, such as maintenance or inspections. Entry should occur during reasonable hours. (hemlane.com)
Emergency Access and Repairs
If there is an emergency, such as loss of heat or water, landlords may enter without prior notice to make repairs. If repairs require temporary relocation, landlords must cover comparable accommodations for up to 30 days.
Lease Termination, Non-Renewal, and Eviction
Non-Renewal Notice
In 2025, Virginia introduced a rule requiring landlords to provide written notice if they do not intend to renew a lease.
Eviction Process
Landlords must follow proper notice and filing procedures under §55.1-1254 before pursuing an “unlawful detainer” in court. In 2025, eviction-diversion programs were expanded statewide to promote mediation and repayment plans between landlords and tenants before eviction is finalized.
Security Deposit Return After Termination
Landlords must issue an itemized statement of deductions and return any remaining deposit within 45 days after move-out. Failure to comply may result in penalties and attorney fees.
Abandonment and Holdovers
If a tenant abandons the property, landlords may recover damages as allowed by the lease. Holdover tenants (those staying without renewal) remain under the previous lease terms unless modified by written notice and after 30 days.
Fair Housing and Other Obligations
Fair Housing Compliance
Landlords must follow federal and state fair housing laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, familial status, sexual orientation, or source of income.
Mold and Drywall Disclosure
If the landlord has actual knowledge of mold or defective drywall, they must disclose it before the tenant moves in. (legalaidworks.org)
Utility Billing and Submetering
Landlords who use submetering or ratio utility billing must include details about how utilities are measured and billed in the lease.
Local Licensing and Inspections
Some Virginia localities may require rental licensing or periodic inspections. Always check your city or county regulations to ensure compliance. (axios.com)
Recent Legislative Updates for 2025
Fee Disclosure Requirements
Leases must include detailed disclosure of deposits, rent, and one-time charges on the first page.
Eviction Diversion Expansion
More Virginia courts now offer structured mediation or repayment programs.
Notice of Non-Renewal
Written notice is now mandatory if the lease will not be renewed.
Updated Tenant Rights Form
Only the latest DHCD-approved Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities is valid for new leases. (abramshomes.com)
Best Practices for Landlords
Update lease templates to comply with July 2025 disclosure rules.
Always attach and sign the current Statement of Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Keep thorough records of leases, notices, repairs, and deposits.
Provide written notice before entry and for all lease changes.
Inspect properties regularly and maintain habitability.
Stay informed about local inspection or registration laws.
Offer transparency in fees and avoid unlisted charges.
Check whether your local court requires eviction diversion participation before filing.
Common Violations to Avoid
Using outdated lease forms or rights statements.
Charging fees not disclosed on the first page of the lease.
Entering without 72-hour written notice for non-emergency visits.
Holding security deposits beyond the 45-day limit.
Ignoring maintenance or safety complaints.
Proceeding with eviction before considering diversion options.
Failing to issue written non-renewal notice.
Neglecting required disclosures or insurance notices.
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Why Compliance Matters
Compliance with Virginia’s rental laws protects you from legal issues and strengthens your reputation as a fair and professional landlord. Transparent communication, accurate disclosures, and timely maintenance not only reduce turnover but also foster tenant trust and satisfaction.
By keeping up with the 2025 legal changes, landlords can ensure smooth operations, minimize disputes, and avoid costly litigation.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, Virginia’s rental laws continue to evolve to protect both landlords and tenants. Staying informed and proactive about compliance—especially regarding fee disclosures, entry notices, and tenant rights documentation—will help you avoid legal complications.
If you manage multiple properties or aren’t sure whether your leases meet the new requirements, consult a licensed Virginia property manager or real estate attorney for guidance.
