Virginia Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
Va. Code §55.1-1226 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy and possession delivered.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear to the unit, reasonable charges as provided in the lease. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the unit by the tenant and the aging process.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to full deposit return plus attorney fees and penalty up to double the deposit for bad faith under Va. Code §55.1-1226(C).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 2 months rent
- Itemization required: Within 45 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
- Walk-through inspection: Tenant has the right to a move-out inspection
Additional Protections
- Tenant may request a move-in and move-out inspection
- Landlord must permit tenant to be present for inspections
- Landlord must provide written report of damages within 5 days of move-out inspection
What Your Virginia Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Virginia's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
Va. Code §55.1-1226 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Virginia law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the unit by the tenant and the aging process...
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Virginia Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Virginia?
Under Va. Code §55.1-1226, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 45 calendar days after termination of tenancy and possession delivered. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Virginia landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Virginia, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear to the unit, reasonable charges as provided in the lease. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Virginia?
In Virginia: Deterioration that occurs from the normal use of the unit by the tenant and the aging process. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Virginia landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, you may be entitled to full deposit return plus attorney fees and penalty up to double the deposit for bad faith under Va. Code §55.1-1226(C). You can pursue this in small claims court.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to dispute deposit deductions in Virginia?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Virginia-specific dispute letter citing Va. Code §55.1-1226 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific rights and generate your letter.