Virginia security deposit rules
Virginia limits security deposits to two months' periodic rent. The deposit must be returned itemized statement and refund within 45 days after termination of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates, whichever occurs last, with an itemised list of any deductions. No interest is owed on the deposit under state law.
What the law requires
Two months' periodic rent. Returned Itemized statement and refund within 45 days after termination of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates, whichever occurs last. Interest on deposits is no longer required (requirement repealed effective 2015). Deductions made during the tenancy must be itemized within 30 days; tenant may request a move-out inspection within 72 hours of delivering possession.
- Deductions: unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, itemised in writing. Cleaning and repainting after ordinary use are normal wear in most states.
- Deadline: the 45-day clock usually starts when the tenant moves out and, in many states, when a forwarding address is provided. Missing it typically forfeits the landlord’s right to keep any of the deposit and can add statutory damages.
- Interest: none required under state law. Cities in some no-interest states have their own ordinances, so check the municipal code where you rent.
Move-out checklist
- Give written notice of the move-out date and a forwarding address; many deadlines only start when the landlord has the address.
- Photograph every room after cleaning, with a timestamp. Request a joint inspection where the state allows one.
- If the deadline passes, send a written demand citing Va. Code § 55.1-1226. Small-claims court handles deposit disputes in every state and most cap the claim well above a typical deposit.
Related Virginia rules
- Late fees: Late charge must be in the written rental agreement and may not exceed the lesser of 10% of the periodic rent or 10% of the remaining balance due. Rent paid after the fifth day of the month may incur a late charge (§ 55.1-1204(C)(5), the statutory default term), giving an effective 5-day grace period. Late fee calculator.
- Notice to end a tenancy: At least 30 days' written notice before the next rent due date by either party, unless the rental agreement sets a different period (7 days for week-to-week). Multifamily owners declining to renew 20 or more (or 50% of) month-to-month tenancies within 30 days must give 60 days' notice. Nonpayment: 14-day written notice to pay or vacate; landlords owning more than four units must offer a payment plan before filing when the amount owed is one month's rent or less (§ 55.1-1245(G)). Notice calculator.
- All rules on one page: Virginia landlord and tenant law.
Frequently asked questions
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Virginia?
Two months' periodic rent. Interest on deposits is no longer required (requirement repealed effective 2015). Deductions made during the tenancy must be itemized within 30 days; tenant may request a move-out inspection within 72 hours of delivering possession.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Virginia?
Itemized statement and refund within 45 days after termination of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates, whichever occurs last. The statute is Va. Code § 55.1-1226.
Does a Virginia landlord have to pay interest on the security deposit?
No. Virginia law does not require interest on residential security deposits.