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Virginia Beach, VA Rental Property Rules: Rent Control (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Rent control rules in Virginia Beach, VA, also known as rent stabilization or rent cap ordinances, limit annual rent increases and protect tenants from displacement.

Key Facts

Rent Control
Preempted by VA Code §55.1-1204
Rent Caps
None
Notice Required
30 days for month-to-month
State Preemption
No locality may control rent

Summary

Virginia Beach has no rent control ordinance. Virginia state law (VA Code §55.1-1204) preempts local rent control. Landlords may set and increase rents without government caps, subject only to notice requirements.

Terms and conditions of rental agreement; payment of rent; copy of rental agreement for tenant. A. A landlord and tenant may include in a rental agreement terms and conditions not prohibited by this chapter or other rule of law, including rent, charges for late payment of rent, the term of the agreement, automatic renewal of the rental agreement, requirements for notice of intent to vacate or terminate the rental agreement, and other provisions governing the rights and obligations of the parties. B. A landlord shall offer a prospective tenant a written rental agreement containing the terms governing the rental of the dwelling unit and setting forth the terms and conditions of the landlord-te

Source: VA Code §55.1-1204 — Rent Control PreemptionView official code

Full Breakdown

Virginia Code §55.1-1204 states that no locality may enact any ordinance controlling rent. Landlords may increase rent with 30 days' written notice for month-to-month tenancies. There are no caps on the amount of rent increases. Fixed-term leases lock in rent for the lease term unless the lease provides otherwise. Federal Section 8 and other affordable housing programs operate in Virginia Beach but do not constitute rent control.

Violations & Fines

Not applicable. Rent control is preempted by state law. Landlords must provide proper notice but face no caps on increases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia Beach have rent control?
No. Virginia state law expressly preempts local rent control ordinances. Landlords may set and increase rents without government caps.
How much notice for a rent increase?
For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice before a rent increase takes effect.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Virginia Beach

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSignificant RestrictionsRepairs & HabitabilitySome RestrictionsSecurity Deposit RulesSome RestrictionsSource-of-Income DiscriminationSome RestrictionsSection 8 Voucher AcceptanceFew RestrictionsRental RegistrationSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSignificant RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome Restrictions

All Virginia Beach rules

Compare Virginia Beach to another location·View the Virginia rental property rules overview

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