Virginia Security Deposit Law
Return deadline, statute, and penalties for Virginia renters.
Return deadline
45 days
Penalty for late or wrongful withholding
Amount withheld plus actual damages and attorney fees
Governing statute
Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1226
Did your Virginia landlord miss the deadline?
Enter your move-out date and deposit to see your exact deadline, whether it has passed, and the maximum penalty. It's free.
Check my Virginia deadlineVirginia security deposit questions
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Virginia?
Under Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1226, a Virginia landlord generally has 45 days to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if a Virginia landlord returns the deposit late?
Amount withheld plus actual damages and attorney fees. Courts usually decide whether a penalty applies, and many states require showing the landlord acted in bad faith.
Can a Virginia landlord deduct from my deposit?
Landlords can generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, and must explain deductions in writing.
How do I demand my security deposit back in Virginia?
Send your landlord a written demand letter that cites Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1226, states the amount owed, and sets a deadline to pay. Send it by certified mail and keep a copy. If the landlord doesn't pay, the letter is useful evidence in small claims court.
Last reviewed October 21, 2026. Read the official text of Va. Code Ann. § 55.1-1226. This page is general information, not legal advice. See our terms of use.