PropertyManagementMaven: VA Landlords & Property Managers * Proposed Changes to the VRLTA

Virginia Residential Landlord Tenant Act Reform

House Bill 407 – Glenn Oder

The Virginia Residential Landlord Tenant Act (VRLTA) is the body of law that governs landlord and tenant relationships. From time to time, we identify efficiencies that can be made….efficiencies that protect the landlord and the tenant.

Here’s what this bill accomplishes:
. Provides that the Supreme Court of Virginia shall allow electronic upload of unlawful detainer actions in court;

. Clarifies that Rational Utility Billing (RUB) is covered under VRLTA as rent, versus utility payments as regulated by     the SCC;

. Clarifies when property managers can go to court without a lawyer;

. Clarifies that landlords can charge administrative fees to cover damage and renters insurance programs;
Authorizes landlords to withhold the return of security deposits until water and sewer bills have been paid to the locality