What Happens When Rent Control Ends in Virginia?

Understanding how rent increases work in Virginia is important for renters, especially when moving from a protected or controlled rent to an open market rate. While Virginia does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws, renters facing sudden rent hikes or changes to their lease should know their rights and the proper procedures landlords must follow. This guide explains when and how rent can increase, what notice is required, and where you can turn for help if you’re affected by rent changes.

Does Virginia Have Rent Control or Rent Stabilization?

Virginia does not currently have any statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means landlords can generally set rent at market rates and raise rents as they choose, subject to proper legal notice and existing lease agreements.^[1] There are no local jurisdictions with rent control ordinances, either.

What Happens When a Lease Ends or Is Renewed?

Most renters in Virginia sign a lease for a fixed period (often 12 months). At the end of this term:

• Your landlord may offer to renew the lease at a new rent amount, which could be higher, without legal limits on the increase.
• If you are on a month-to-month lease, your landlord may also raise the rent with proper notice.

Always check your lease for any clauses about renewals or rent increases.

Required Notice for Rent Increases in Virginia

Virginia law requires landlords to provide written notice before increasing rent if you’re on a month-to-month or periodic lease. For leases longer than month-to-month, increases typically occur at renewal.

• Month-to-month leases: At least 30 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect.
• Fixed-term leases: Rent usually remains the same until the lease ends. The landlord may propose a new rent when you sign a renewal.

If you receive a rent increase notice, review your lease and check that your landlord has met the notice requirements under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2]

Official Notice Forms

Currently, Virginia law does not require a specific statewide form for rent increase notices. Your landlord may give notice in writing, such as a letter or email, as long as it’s consistent with your lease. If you are facing a rent increase, keep a copy of any written notice for your records.

If you want to end your lease because of the increase, you may use a written termination notice. While there’s no dedicated termination form for this situation, many tenants use the general “Notice of Lease Termination”:

• Form Name: Notice of Lease Termination
• How It’s Used: Send to your landlord when you intend to move out due to a rent increase or non-renewal.
• Download the Notice of Lease Termination (PDF)

Understanding Your Options if Facing a Large Rent Increase

If your landlord gives notice of a steep rent hike, you can:

• Negotiate with your landlord for a smaller increase or flexible terms
• Accept the new rent and stay
• Provide proper notice and move out before the increase begins

Where Renters Can Get Help

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development is a reliable resource for updated tenant laws and official forms. Most rental disputes are ultimately addressed by the Virginia General District Court, which hears landlord-tenant cases.

Always document and date all communications with your landlord regarding rent increases, lease renewals, or required notices.

FAQ: Rent Increases and Lease Changes in Virginia

1. Can my landlord raise my rent as much as they want in Virginia?
   Yes, as Virginia has no statewide rent control. However, landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice for month-to-month leases.
2. Is there a limit to how often rent can be increased?
   No state law sets a limit, but rent can only increase with proper notice or at the end of a lease term, unless your lease says otherwise.
3. Do I have to use a specific form to give notice if I’m moving out after a rent increase?
   No, but you should give written notice. The sample “Notice of Lease Termination” is recommended and is available from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.
4. Who hears legal complaints about rent increases or lease disputes?
   Most disputes go through the Virginia General District Court.
5. Where can I find current tenant laws for Virginia?
   You can review the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for detailed legal requirements.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• Virginia has no rent control; landlords can set market rents with proper notice.
• 30 days’ written notice is required for month-to-month rent increases.
• Use official resources to review your rights and submit proper lease termination notices if needed.

Stay informed and proactive when facing any major rent changes—help is available if you need guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Virginia Attorney General – Tenant Rights Information
• Official court for disputes: Virginia General District Court
• File housing discrimination complaints: Virginia Fair Housing Office

---

1. See Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Landlord-Tenant Resources
2. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Title 55.1, Chapter 12

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