Is there a limit on how much my landlord can raise my rent in Virginia?

No, Virginia does not limit rent increases as long as landlords provide proper notice and do not discriminate.

What notice must be given before raising rent in Virginia?

Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent for month-to-month or longer leases.

Can I stop a rent increase if it feels unfair?

Virginia only allows challenges to rent increases based on discrimination or landlord retaliation, not for the amount of the increase.

What form do I use to leave after a rent increase?

Use a 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy letter, which can be found in sample format from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

Who handles eviction disputes in Virginia?

Evictions are processed by the Virginia General District Court, which is the state’s official tribunal for landlord-tenant matters.

Understanding Rent Gouging Protections in Virginia

Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Virginia published: June 21, 2025

If you're a renter in Virginia and have recently seen your rent go up, you might be wondering if these increases are fair—and whether rent gouging is even regulated under current state law. Here’s what every renter needs to know about rent increases, protections, and complaint options in Virginia.

Does Virginia Have Rent Gouging Laws?

Currently, Virginia does not have any statewide rent control or restrictions on how much a landlord can raise rent.[1] Virginia law allows landlords to set rents based on the market unless the property is part of a government-funded affordable housing program with specific limits. This means there is no official legal definition of "rent gouging" in the state’s landlord-tenant codes.

What Rules Apply to Rent Increases?

Advance Notice: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent for tenants with month-to-month or longer agreements.[2]
Non-Discrimination: Rent increases cannot be based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or other protected classes.
Lease Terms Control: If you have a fixed-term lease, your rent cannot be increased until your lease term ends—unless your lease says otherwise.

However, Virginia law does not cap how much rent can be raised, so large increases are legal as long as you get proper notice and they don't violate anti-discrimination or retaliation protections.

What If I Think My Rent Is Unfairly High?

There is currently no official mechanism under Virginia law for challenging rent increases based solely on the amount. But you might have rights if you suspect the increase involves illegal discrimination or landlord retaliation (for example, if you requested repairs and your rent suddenly went up).

If you live in subsidized or public housing: Rent increases are regulated and you may have protections. Check your local housing authority’s rules.
If you suspect discrimination: Contact the Virginia Fair Housing Office.
If facing a sudden eviction after refusing a rent increase: Learn about your eviction protections below.

Official Forms for Renters

30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form: No official number)
Use this to give your landlord notice you plan to move out if you can't afford a new rent amount. You must send it at least 30 days before moving for a month-to-month tenancy. Sample letters here (official state source).
Complaint Intake Form (Virginia Fair Housing Office)
If you suspect discrimination related to your rent increase, use this complaint form. Access the form and process on the official Fair Housing Office complaints page.

What Actions Can Renters Take?

While Virginia law doesn’t define or prohibit rent gouging, renters still have important rights. Here are practical steps if you’re facing a substantial rent increase:

Request reasons in writing for a large rent hike, especially if it seems retaliatory.
Review your lease to confirm when and how rent can legally be increased.
File a complaint if you believe the increase is based on unlawful discrimination or is in retaliation for asserting your legal rights.
Consider negotiating directly with your landlord and documenting all communications.
Use the 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy letter if you decide to move out due to the increase.

Virginia does not limit rent increases, but you are always entitled to fair treatment and proper notice for any rent change. Seek help if you believe your rights are being violated.

What If My Landlord Tries to Evict Me Due to Rent Increases?

14-Day Notice of Nonpayment: If you do not pay the raised rent, the landlord must give you at least 14 days’ notice to pay or leave before initiating eviction proceedings. Find sample notices from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.
Evictions must go through the Virginia General District Court – the official tribunal for landlord-tenant matters in Virginia.

If you are served with an eviction notice, make sure to respond promptly and consider seeking legal aid if you have concerns about the validity of the increase or the eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a limit on how much my landlord can raise my rent in Virginia?
No, Virginia does not have a law that limits rent increases. Landlords can raise rent by any amount as long as they provide proper written notice and do not discriminate.
What notice does my landlord need to give before raising rent?
Your landlord must provide at least 30 days' written notice before increasing the rent for month-to-month or longer leases.
Can I fight a rent increase that feels unfair?
You can only challenge a rent increase if it is based on discrimination or retaliation. There is no law against large increases unless other rights are violated.
What forms do I use if I want to move out after a rent increase?
Use a 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy letter (no official number) available as a sample from the Department of Housing and Community Development.
Where do I go if my landlord tries to evict me after I refuse a rent hike?
Eviction cases are handled by the Virginia General District Court.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

Virginia law does not cap rent increases for most tenants, but proper advance notice is always required.
Landlords cannot raise rent in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner.
If you’re concerned about a rent hike, review your lease, document communications, and know your rights to proper notice and fair housing.

Always seek out official guidance or legal help if you believe your rights as a renter are at risk.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Landlord-Tenant Resources
Virginia Fair Housing Office – for discrimination complaints or resources
Virginia General District Court – Landlord-Tenant Division (for eviction and legal disputes)
Legal Aid in Virginia – free or low-cost legal assistance to renters
Read the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act