Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Rent Increase Notice Requirements

Few RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Virginia has no statute capping rent or setting a general rent-increase notice period, and no statewide rent control. During a fixed-term lease the rent is locked until the term ends. For a month-to-month tenancy a landlord effectively raises rent by giving the 30-day notice needed to change the periodic tenancy.

Key Facts

State notice requirement: None general; 30-day for month-to-month change
Rent control: None; locally preempted
Fixed-term lease: Rent fixed until term ends
Month-to-month basis: 30-day notice to change terms (§ 55.1-1253)
Future rule: 90-day notice for large landlords from July 1, 2027

Last verified: 2026-06-27

Full Breakdown

The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Va. Code Title 55.1, Ch. 12) contains no provision limiting how much rent may be charged or a standalone rent-increase notice rule, and Virginia preempts local rent control. During a fixed-term lease the rent stated in the agreement controls and cannot be raised before the term ends unless the lease allows it. For a month-to-month tenancy, a landlord imposes new rent by changing the tenancy terms; under Va. Code § 55.1-1253(A) either party must give at least 30 days' notice before the next rent due date, so a tenant rejecting a higher rent gets at least that period. A separate law effective July 1, 2027 will require larger landlords to give 90 days' advance written notice of increases.

Violations & Penalties

No specific statutory penalty. A rent increase that breaches the lease, or that is imposed in retaliation for a tenant exercising rights, may be challenged under the VRLTA's anti-retaliation provisions in civil court.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much notice must a Virginia landlord give before raising rent?

No statute sets a general rent-increase notice period. For a month-to-month tenancy the 30-day notice to change the tenancy under § 55.1-1253 is the practical floor. A 90-day rule for larger landlords takes effect July 1, 2027.

Is there a limit on how much rent can be raised in Virginia?

No. Virginia has no rent-control law and bars localities from enacting one, so the amount of any increase is governed only by the lease and the notice rules for changing a periodic tenancy.

Sources

Va. Code § 55.1-1253 (Notice; termination of periodic tenancy)

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