Does Virginia Beach, VA have its own bed-bug rules ordinance?

No. Virginia Beach, VA does not appear to have a local bed-bug rules ordinance, Virginia state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Virginia Code §55.1-1227.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, VA Public Health Rules: Bed-Bug Rules (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Landlord duty: VA Code §55.1-1227
Hotel inspections: VA Code §35.1-13
Tenant duty: Cooperate with treatment
Local code: VB Chapter 9

Summary

Virginia Beach landlords must address bed bug infestations in rental units under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, with tenants required to cooperate in inspections and treatment.

Maintain the premises in such a condition as to prevent the accumulation of moisture and the growth of mold and promptly respond to any notices from a tenant as provided in subdivision A 10 of § 55.1-1227 . Where there is visible evidence of mold, the landlord shall promptly remediate the mold conditions in accordance with the requirements of subsection E of § 8.01-226.12 and reinspect the dwelling unit to confirm that there is no longer visible evidence of mold in the dwelling unit. The landlord shall provide a tenant with a copy of a summary of information related to mold remediation occurring during that tenancy and, upon request of the tenant, make available the full package of such information and reports not protected by attorney-client privilege.

Source: Virginia Code §55.1-1227View official code

Full Breakdown

Virginia Code §55.1-1227 (Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act) obligates landlords to maintain rental units free of insects and rodents and to provide pest control as needed. Virginia Beach Code Chapter 9 (Building Maintenance Code) reinforces the same standard for habitability. When bed bugs are reported, landlords typically arrange licensed pest treatment, while tenants must allow inspection access and prepare the unit by laundering bedding. Hotels along the Virginia Beach resort strip are inspected by the Virginia Beach Health Department under Virginia Code §35.1-13 lodging rules and may be required to close infested rooms during treatment.

Violations & Fines

Landlords ignoring bed bug complaints can face Virginia General District Court orders for repair-or-rent-escrow remedies under Virginia Code §55.1-1244 and Virginia Beach Code Enforcement notices for habitability violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord charge me for bed bug treatment?

Generally no, unless your lease assigns responsibility and the infestation clearly resulted from your negligence. Habitability obligations under Virginia Code §55.1-1227 typically place treatment costs on the landlord.

How do I report bed bugs at a Virginia Beach hotel?

Contact the Virginia Beach Health Department's Environmental Health office. Inspectors can require room closures, mandate licensed treatment, and follow up before rooms return to service.

Sources & Official References

[1]Virginia Code §55.1-1227

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