Virginia Eviction Laws

Virginia requires a 14-day written notice to pay or quit before filing an unlawful detainer action for nonpayment of rent.

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Key Rules

Nonpayment Notice
14 days written pay-or-quit notice for nonpayment of rent
Lease Violation Notice
30 days notice to remedy or vacate for remediable violations
Periodic Tenancy Notice
30 days written notice for month-to-month termination
Rent Control
No rent control in Virginia
Just Cause Required
No statewide just-cause requirement

Applicable Statutes

Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1245

Termination for nonpayment of rent: landlord must give 14 days written notice (pay-or-quit) before filing an unlawful detainer action for nonpayment.

Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1247

Termination for other lease violations: 30-day written notice to cure or vacate for remediable violations; immediate termination for material noncurable violations.

Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1253

Retaliatory eviction prohibited: landlord may not retaliate against tenant for exercising legal rights under the VRLTA.

Legal Aid Resources

Legal Aid Justice Center

434-977-0553

Central and Northern Virginia

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