Virginia Landlord-Tenant Law: Understanding the Landlord-Tenant Relationship and Recent Statutory Changes

The landlord-tenant relationship is a complex one which is often the subject of disputes and litigation. When such problems arise, an assessment of the rights and obligations of the parties – and, ultimately, the solutions to these problems -- must take into consideration the requirements established through the governing lease, all applicable landlord-tenant statutes and controlling case law. Further complicating this area of the law is the fact that there are frequent legislative changes that must be monitored that affect the right of the parties, content of leases, available remedies/defenses, and court/eviction processes.    

In 2019, the Virginia General Assembly repealed and re-codified both the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and the Landlord and Tenant Act -- renaming that chapter "Nonresidential Tenancies." Numerous changes to these statutes were also made – all of which go into effect October 1, 2019.  

John Ivins, a partner with the law firm of Hirschler Fleischer who has practiced in this area for more than 20 years, will explore the complexities of handling cases in this area, addressing not only the general legal requirements and approaches for solving landlord-tenant disputes, but addressing the various statutory changes which are effective October 1, 2019. 

This program, produced in 2019, does not address the implications of the COVID pandemic.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and discuss the 2019 changes to the statutes affecting residential and nonresidential tenancies
2. Examine the landlord and tenant's rights, duties, and obligations established by the lease, applicable statutes, and controlling case law
3. Develop an understanding of landlord-tenant litigation principles, including court requirements and possible defenses
4. Explore the various non-litigation options and strategies that may be available for resolving landlord-tenant disputes
5. Appreciate the circumstances where other statutes and legal principles may apply