Updated January 05, 2023
A Virginia notice to enter alerts a tenant that their landlord needs to access their rental unit. The landlord has to provide at least seventy-two (72) hours’ notice and can only enter at reasonable times of day as agreed with the tenant.
Laws – § 55.1-1229(4)
Notice can be used for
- Exhibiting the unit to potential buyers, contractors, mortgage lenders, tenants, or workers;
- Inspection;
- Repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements; and
- Services.
Other Landlord Access
Abandonment or Surrender (55.1 § 1229(C)) A landlord can enter a rental unit without notice or consent if they have a reasonable belief that the tenant has abandoned or surrendered the property.
Court Order (55.1 § 1229(C)) – A landlord can enter a rental unit without notice or consent if they have a proper court order.
Emergency (55.1 § 1229(A)) – A landlord can enter a rental unit without notice or consent in case of an emergency.
Extended Absence (§1249) – If necessary, a landlord can enter a rental unit without notice or consent if the tenant has been absent from the unit for more than seven (7) days without notice.
Noncompliance (55.1 § 1248(3)) – If the tenant has breached the lease agreement in a manner that causes damage or unhealthy living conditions to or in the unit, the landlord can send reasonable notice to enter to remedy the breach at the expense of the tenant.
Request by Tenant (55.1 § 1229(A)) – If the tenant has requested maintenance, the landlord does not have to provide prior notice to enter. The request is considered consent.
Temporary Relocation (55.1 § 1229(B)) – If a landlord needs a tenant to vacate the property for up to thirty (30) days for extensive maintenance, they must give the tenant at least thirty (30) days notice and provide alternative housing arrangements for the tenant. The tenant is still responsible for all rent payments during the temporary relocation.