LawSmart.com

If I Don't Like The Apartment Or The Area, Can I Break The Lease Or Just Move Out? What Happens If I Do?

A lease agreement is a legally binding contract under which the tenant is liable for all rent due through the termination date of that contract. If a tenant breaks the rental agreement before the termination date, the landlord can claim damages for loss of rental income, readvertising, redecorating, reasonable attorney fees, or other expenses caused by your breach of the contract. If you must break the contract, discuss it with the landlord to find if a reasonable cost can be agreed; get it in writing and signed by both parties so there is no misunderstanding at a later date.

Other Virginia Landlord/Tenant FAQs

Q: What Laws Protect Me As A Tenant In Virginia?
A: Two state laws govern tenantlandlord relationships in Virginia. These are the Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (VRLTA) and the Virginia Uniform … More
Q: How Much Can A Landlord Require As A Security Deposit?
A: When the VRLTA applies, a security deposit may not exceed two months` rent, however, usual practice is one month`s rent. There is no limit or control when the VRLTA … More
Q: Can I Use My Security Deposit For The Last Month's Rent?
A: No. The deposit is required to secure the tenant`s performance of all parts of the rental agreement and is a security against any damages to the leased premises. It is … More
Q: Is There Any Limit Or Ceiling On Rent Increases?
A: There is no rent control in Virginia. A landlord can increase rent to whatever the rental market will bear, regardless of how long you have rented there. However, rent … More

Landlord/Tenant Sub-categories

Landlord Rights
Landlord Tenant Law
Landlord Tenant Rights
Leases
Rent

Rental Discrimination
Repairs
Security Deposit
Terminations and Evictions