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How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Virginia?
Short answer
At a glance: 45 days
Return the deposit with a written itemized list of deductions within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant moves out, whichever is later
Deadline: Within 45 days after move-out
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant vacates (whichever is later), give the tenant a written notice itemizing the deposit and any deductions, with any amount due. Deposits may not exceed two months' rent. If damage exceeds the deposit and needs a contractor, notify the tenant within the 45 days to get 15 more days for the itemization.
"The security deposit and any deductions, damages, and charges shall be itemized by the landlord in a written notice given to the tenant, together with any amount due to the tenant, within 45 days after the termination date of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates the dwelling unit, whichever occurs last." law.lis.virginia.gov
"No landlord may demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two months' periodic rent." law.lis.virginia.gov
Return the deposit with a written itemized list of deductions within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant moves out, whichever is later Verified
Deadline: Within 45 days after move-out
Within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant vacates (whichever is later), give the tenant a written notice itemizing the deposit and any deductions, with any amount due. Deposits may not exceed two months' rent. If damage exceeds the deposit and needs a contractor, notify the tenant within the 45 days to get 15 more days for the itemization.
"The security deposit and any deductions, damages, and charges shall be itemized by the landlord in a written notice given to the tenant, together with any amount due to the tenant, within 45 days after the termination date of the tenancy or the date the tenant vacates the dwelling unit, whichever occurs last." law.lis.virginia.gov
"No landlord may demand or receive a security deposit, however denominated, in an amount or value in excess of two months' periodic rent." law.lis.virginia.gov
Notes: Va. Code 55.1-1226(A) and (E). Willful noncompliance: return of the deposit plus actual damages and attorney fees.
Last verified 2026-10-21 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction
Within 5 days after the tenant gives notice of moving out: tell them they can attend the move-out inspection Verified
Deadline: Within 5 days after receiving the tenant's notice of intent to vacate (or when you ask the tenant to vacate)
When you ask a tenant to vacate, or within five days after you receive the tenant's notice of intent to vacate, tell the tenant in writing that they may be present at the move-out inspection. If they ask to attend, schedule it within 72 hours of delivery of possession.
"within five days after receipt of notice by the landlord of the tenant's intent to vacate, the landlord shall provide written notice to the tenant of the tenant's right to be present at the landlord's inspection of the dwelling unit" law.lis.virginia.gov
"which must be made within 72 hours of delivery of possession." law.lis.virginia.gov
Notes: Va. Code 55.1-1226(G).
Last verified 2026-10-21 · Confidence: high · Status: verified · Report a correction