Does Virginia Have Rent Stabilization Laws?

If you’re renting in Virginia, you might wonder whether there are laws that limit how much your landlord can increase your rent, such as rent control or rent stabilization. Understanding how rent increases are regulated—or not regulated—in Virginia can help you plan, budget, and protect your rights as a renter.

What Is Rent Stabilization?

Rent stabilization (sometimes called rent control) refers to laws that cap how much a landlord can raise rent each year. It also often includes extra protections, like requiring a valid reason to evict tenants or strong renewal rights. These laws exist in a few states and some big cities but not everywhere.

Does Virginia Have Rent Stabilization or Rent Control?

Virginia does not have any statewide or city-level rent stabilization or rent control laws. This means:

• No state or local law caps how much landlords can increase rent.
• Landlords generally can set new rent amounts at lease renewal or for new tenants.
• All increases must still follow Virginia’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act rules on notice and discrimination.^[1]

How Rent Increases Work in Virginia

While rent isn’t regulated by a cap, the timing and process of raising rent is regulated under Virginia law. Here’s what you need to know:

• Landlords must give at least 30 days' written notice before increasing rent on month-to-month leases.
• During a fixed-term lease, rent can’t be changed until renewal—unless your lease says otherwise.
• All notices must be in writing, either delivered in person or by mail.

What Renters Can Do if Facing a Large Rent Increase

Even though there’s no official limit, renters have certain rights if you’re given a large rent increase:

• Review your lease terms—check if any rent protections or terms about increases apply.
• Make sure you received proper written notice (30 days for month-to-month rentals).
• If your rent is increased as a form of retaliation (for example, after you request repairs), this is illegal under Virginia law.
• If you suspect discrimination based on race, religion, sex, disability, or other protected class, you have the right to file a fair housing complaint.

Relevant Forms for Virginia Renters

While there are no forms specific to rent stabilization, you may need to use the following if you feel your rights were violated:

• Virginia Fair Housing Complaint Form (No official number): Use this form if you believe your landlord raised rent for discriminatory reasons. Submit your complaint online or download the form here. For example, a renter who was given a rent increase only after disclosing a disability can file this form with the Virginia Fair Housing Office.
• Tenant Complaint/Inquiry Form (No official number): Use this to report unresolved habitability or lease violation issues. View the process and access the form.

Where to Go for Rental Disputes

If you need legal enforcement or have a dispute with your landlord:

• Virginia General District Court handles most landlord-tenant disputes, including those about improper rent increases or evictions.^[2]

The key law for renters in Virginia is the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

FAQ: Rent Increases and Rent Control in Virginia

1. Does Virginia have any rent control or rent stabilization laws?
   No. Virginia does not have rent control or rent stabilization at the state or city level. Landlords can increase rent but must provide proper notice.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase?
   At least 30 days' written notice is required for most month-to-month leases.
3. What can I do if I think a rent increase is discriminatory?
   File a complaint with the Virginia Fair Housing Office using their complaint form or online portal.
4. Can my landlord raise my rent during a fixed-term lease?
   Generally, rent can only be raised when your lease is renewed, unless your lease agreement says otherwise.
5. Where can I get help with landlord-tenant disputes in Virginia?
   Start with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and, if needed, the General District Court that covers your area.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• There are no rent stabilization or rent control laws in Virginia.
• Landlords can raise rent—but only with proper notice and non-discriminatory reasons.
• Resources and forms are available if you suspect illegal rent increases or discrimination.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Virginia Fair Housing Office – File a Complaint
• Virginia General District Court – Find Your Court

---

1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 55.1, Chapter 12)
2. Official Virginia General District Courts Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations