Virginia 60-Day Notice Overview
Virginia does not require a 60-day notice for standard residential tenancy terminations. Under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA, Va. Code 55.1-1200 et seq.), month-to-month tenancies can be terminated with 30 days written notice under Va. Code 55.1-1253. Virginia's VRLTA applies to most residential tenancies in the state.
Virginia provides moderate tenant protections under the VRLTA. The state has no statewide rent control, though some Northern Virginia localities have discussed additional protections. Security deposits are capped at two months' rent under Va. Code 55.1-1226. The deposit must be returned within 45 days. Virginia prohibits retaliatory evictions under Va. Code 55.1-1258.
30 Days
Statutory default
$58-$150
Court filing fees
Written
Notice required
2-4 wks
Court process
When a 60-Day Notice Applies in Virginia
Since Virginia's statutory default for month-to-month termination is 30 days, understanding when a 60-day notice is actually required or advisable is essential for landlords.
Lease-Required Extended Notice
Many Virginia property management companies, especially in Northern Virginia and Richmond, include 60-day non-renewal clauses. The contractual obligation overrides the 30-day VRLTA minimum.
VHDA Programs
Federal Section 8 programs administered through the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) and local PHAs frequently require 60-90 days notice before termination.
Northern Virginia Market
Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun) has one of the most expensive and competitive rental markets in the nation due to proximity to Washington, D.C. Providing 60 days is essential for tenants in this high-cost market.
Virginia Legal Requirements
Virginia's landlord-tenant statutes establish specific requirements for termination notices that must be followed precisely.
Virginia VRLTA Applies to Most Tenancies
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) applies to most residential tenancies in Virginia. However, certain properties may be exempt including single-family homes where the owner does not own more than two rental properties. In exempt situations, the Virginia landlord and tenant statutes outside the VRLTA (Va. Code 55.1-1400 et seq.) may apply with different notice requirements.
Notice Content Requirements
- Written Notice: Va. Code 55.1-1253 requires written notice. Oral notice is insufficient under the VRLTA
- Tenant and Property ID: Include all tenant names from the lease and the complete property address including city/county and ZIP code
- Termination Date: State the exact date at least 60 days from service, aligned with the rental period
- Landlord Contact: Include the landlord or property manager name, Virginia mailing address, and telephone number
- Security Deposit Reference: Va. Code 55.1-1226 requires return of the deposit within 45 days with an itemized statement. Deposits capped at two months' rent
How to Serve a 60-Day Eviction Notice in Virginia
Proper service is critical in Virginia. If the landlord cannot prove the notice was properly delivered, the court will dismiss the eviction action.
Prepare the Notice
Draft using a Virginia-specific template referencing Va. Code 55.1-1253. Include all tenant names, property address, and the 60-day termination date
Personal Delivery (Preferred)
Hand-deliver to the tenant at the rental premises. Virginia courts prefer personal service. Use a process server or witness
Certified Mail Alternative
Send via certified mail with return receipt to the tenant at the rental address. Virginia accepts mailed service under the VRLTA
Complete Proof of Service
Document date, time, method, and location of service. Keep certified mail receipts and return cards for court proceedings
File Unlawful Detainer Action in General District Court
After 60 days expire without the tenant vacating, file an eviction action in General District Court where the property is located
Virginia Eviction Timeline
Virginia's eviction process uses an Unlawful Detainer action filed in General District Court under Va. Code 8.01-124 et seq. After filing, the court schedules a return date typically 21-30 days out.
At the hearing, both parties present evidence. If the landlord prevails, the court enters a judgment for possession. The tenant has 10 days to appeal to Circuit Court. If no appeal, a writ of eviction is issued.
Total court timeline: 2-4 weeks uncontested, 4-8 weeks contested. Fairfax County, Arlington County, and the City of Richmond have the heaviest caseloads. Combined with the 60-day notice period, the full process spans 10-16 weeks.
Virginia Filing Fees & Costs
Eviction costs in Virginia vary by county and court type. Below are typical expenses.
| Fee / Cost | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| General District Court Filing | $58 - $150 |
| Service of Process | $25 - $60 |
| Attorney Fees | $500 - $2,000 |
| Writ of Eviction | $25 - $50 |
| Sheriff Enforcement | $75 - $200 |
Sample Virginia 60-Day Notice
Below is a preview of our Virginia-specific 60-day termination notice template.
60-DAY NOTICE OF TERMINATION
STATE OF VIRGINIA
Pursuant to Va. Code 55.1-1253
LANDLORD / PROPERTY OWNER:
Name: [Full Legal Name]
Address: [Virginia Mailing Address]
TENANT(S):
Name(s): [All Tenant Names]
Rental Address: [Full Property Address]
NOTICE OF TERMINATION:
You are hereby notified that your tenancy at the above premises will terminate on[Date — 60 days from service]. You must vacate and surrender possession by that date.
VIRGINIA COMPLIANCE NOTE
Your security deposit will be returned within 45 days of vacating per Va. Code 55.1-1226, with an itemized statement. Virginia limits deposits to two months' rent.