Virginia Landlord-Tenant Law Updates Taking Effect July 1, 2025
In recent years, Virginia has seen sweeping changes in landlord-tenant law—especially in response to COVID-19 and expanding tenant protections. While 2025 brings fewer significant updates, there are several important changes landlords and property managers should note as they prepare for the following law changes effective July 1st:
1. Lease Fee Disclosure Requirements Updated
Leases must still include an itemized list of charges, but the law now simplifies the requirement. Only the following must be listed on the first page of a lease:
Security deposit amount
Rent due per lease period
One-time charges due before move-in or with the first rent payment
This list must be preceded by the statement: "No additional security deposits or rent shall be charged unless they are listed below or incorporated into this agreement by way of a separate addendum after execution of this rental agreement."
2. Eviction Diversion Program Expanded
Previously available only in select cities, the eviction diversion program is now an option statewide. Local general district courts may implement their own eviction diversion programs to help tenants avoid eviction through structured repayment plans.
3. Lease Termination Rights for Crime Victims
Lease termination rights have expanded to include victims of stalking and trafficking, in addition to prior protections for family abuse and sexual violence. Tenants must provide legal documentation such a preliminary or permanent protective order or criminal warrant, summons, or indictment, and the lease terminates 28 days after written notice is served.
4. Processing Fee Restrictions
Landlords may no longer charge rent payment processing fees unless they also offer a rent payment option that incurs no payment processing fee.
5. Federal Government Closure Relief
Tenants impacted by federal government shutdowns—whether federal employees, contractors, or subcontractors—are entitled to a 60-day court continuance in nonpayment cases where they can show their pay was impacted due to the shutdown during the period of their nonpayment. The previous version of the law required the federal government to be shut down for a minimum of 14 days in order for tenants to invoke this protection, but with this law change, a tenant impacted by a federal government shutdown of any duration can invoke this protection.
Have questions about this new legislation and how it affects you?
Reach out to me at ckramer@kramerelias.com to discuss.
Crystal Kramer is the founder of Kramer Elias, PLLC, where her leadership and strategic thinking have shaped the firm into a trusted partner for clients navigating complex legal challenges. With a strong background in real estate litigation, landlord-tenant disputes, and civil litigation, Crystal brings a wealth of experience and a client-centered approach to every case.
