Virginia Beach, VA Rental Property Rules: Security Deposit Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- VA Code §55.1-1226
- Deposit cap
- Two months rent
- Return deadline
- 45 days
- Wear and tear
- Not chargeable
Summary
Virginia Beach landlords must follow VA Code §55.1-1226, which caps security deposits at two months of rent and requires return within 45 days of move-out with an itemized statement of any deductions taken.
§ 55.1-1226 . Security deposits.
A. No landlord may demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two months' periodic rent. Upon termination of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates the dwelling unit, whichever occurs last, such security deposit, whether it is property or money held by the landlord as security as provided in this section, may be applied by the landlord solely to (i) the payment of accrued rent, including the reasonable charges for late payment of rent specified in the rental agreement; (ii) the payment of the amount of damages that the landlord has suffered by reason of the tenant's noncompliance with § 55.1-1227 , less reasonable wear and tear; (iii) other damages or charges as provided in the rental agreement; or (iv) actual damages for breach of the rental agreement pursuant to § 55.1-1251 .
Full Breakdown
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act controls security deposits statewide; Virginia Beach cannot adopt a stricter local cap. Landlords may collect up to two months of rent as a deposit, must hold it in any account, and must return the unused portion within 45 days of lease termination along with itemized deductions. Tenants may dispute deductions in General District Court. Damage charges must reflect actual repair costs, not flat fees, and normal wear is not chargeable. Move-in inspection reports are critical evidence.
Violations & Fines
Late or undocumented deposit returns can expose landlords to actual damages, statutory damages, attorney fees, and potential bad-faith multipliers under VRLTA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Virginia Beach landlord charge first, last, plus deposit?
What if my deposit return is late?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
Compare Virginia Beach to another location·View the Virginia rental property rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.