Virginia's Residential Landlord-Tenant Act caps security deposits at two months' rent, requires return within 45 days of move-out with itemized deductions, and applies uniformly across Richmond rentals under state preemption.
VA §55.1-1226 caps security deposits at no more than two months' rent. Landlords must return the deposit, less itemized deductions for damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, within 45 days after termination of tenancy. Deductions must be documented in a written statement provided to the tenant. Failure to return or itemize timely may trigger forfeiture of the deduction right plus court-ordered damages. Richmond cannot impose stricter local caps because Virginia's Dillon's Rule and the VRLTA framework occupy the field. Tenants who dispute deductions may file in Richmond General District Court.
Failure to return deposits within 45 days or to itemize deductions exposes landlords to forfeiture of deductions, statutory damages, and attorney fees.
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See how Richmond's security deposit rules rules stack up against other locations.
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