Virginia Security Deposit Limits

Your Virginia landlord has 45 days after your move-out date to return your security deposit along with an itemized statement of any deductions. This deadline is set by Va. Code Ann. §55.1-1226.

If your landlord misses the 45-day deadline, you can sue in Virginia small claims court (up to $5,000) to recover your full deposit plus court costs. While Virginia doesn't impose a penalty multiplier, the threat of court often motivates compliance.

No. Virginia law under Va. Code Ann. §55.1-1226 explicitly prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear. This includes faded paint, minor scuffs, small nail holes, and carpet thinning from regular use. Deductions must be for actual damage beyond what normal living causes.

Virginia law under Va. Code Ann. §55.1-1226 governs how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit. Most states cap deposits at one to two months' rent. If your landlord charged more than the legal maximum, you may be entitled to recover the excess amount independent of any deposit return dispute.

If your landlord collected a deposit in excess of the legal limit in Virginia, you can send a demand letter requesting the excess back. You can also include this claim in a small claims case (up to $5,000). This violation is separate from any issue with returning the deposit at move-out.