Virginia Rent Increase: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know

When it comes to Va rent increase, a legal adjustment in monthly rent paid by tenants under a lease or month-to-month agreement in the state of Virginia. Also known as rent hike, it’s not regulated by state-wide rent control, meaning landlords can raise rent as long as they follow notice rules and lease terms. Unlike cities like New York or San Francisco, Virginia doesn’t cap how much rent can go up—only when and how it must be communicated.

This matters because Virginia rental laws, the set of state statutes governing landlord-tenant relationships, including security deposits, eviction procedures, and rent adjustments. Also known as Virginia landlord-tenant act, it ensures both sides have clear expectations are strict on procedure, not price. For example, if you’re on a fixed-term lease, your rent can’t jump until the lease ends—unless your contract says otherwise. But if you’re renting month-to-month, your landlord only needs 30 days’ written notice before raising rent. No reason needed. No limit on percentage. Just notice.

But here’s where it gets real: a rent increase isn’t just about the number. It’s tied to security deposit Virginia, the amount a landlord can collect upfront to cover damages or unpaid rent, capped at two months’ rent under Virginia law. Also known as rental deposit, it must be returned within 45 days after move-out, with an itemized list. If your rent jumps $200, your deposit could jump too—and that’s legal. But if your landlord forgets to return your deposit or doesn’t explain deductions? You can sue for double the amount. And yes, people do.

Many tenants assume rent control exists here because it does in other states. It doesn’t. But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. If your landlord raises rent right after you fix the AC, or if the increase is clearly retaliation for complaining about mold, you might have a case under Virginia’s anti-retaliation rules. Document everything. Keep copies of notices. Save emails. Even a text message can count as proof.

Landlords, don’t assume you’re free to do anything. You still need to follow the lease. You still need to give notice. You still need to handle deposits properly. Skip the notice? You could lose the right to evict. Mess up the deposit? You could owe twice what you took. And in a market where tenants are watching every move, word gets around fast.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve been there—whether they’re tenants fighting unfair hikes, landlords learning how to raise rent legally, or newcomers trying to understand what Virginia really allows. No theory. No fluff. Just what works—and what gets you sued.