Thanks to a number of pieces of legislation in the Virginia General Assembly in recent years, the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA, Virginia Code 55.1-1200 et seq.) now governs almost all residential leases in the Commonwealth of Virginia, regardless of whether the lease specifically incorporates the VRLTA.  Prior exceptions based on the number of dwelling units owned by a landlord have been eliminated from Virginia law.  Limited exceptions still exist – for example, for tenants who pay no rent or who are under contract to purchase a property and occupy the property before settlement.  However, the vast majority of residential tenancies now fall under the VRLTA. The VRLTA imposes a number of serious obligations on both landlords and tenants before, during, and after a lease term. Some of these obligations may be unexpected based on prior versions of applicable Virginia law. 

The attorneys at Mata & Hill PLC are experienced in representing both landlords and tenants in residential leases in a practical and affordable manner.  If you are a landlord or a tenant seeking to enforce or protect your rights under a residential lease in Winchester, Front Royal, Strasburg, or any of the surrounding areas, contact the experienced attorneys at Mata & Hill PLC today!