Virginia generally permits two months' rent and requires itemization and refund within 45 days. No interest or separate account required for non-licensees.
Last verified: 2026-10-10
Max deposit
2
months' rent
Return deadline
45
days after tenancy ends
Interest required
No
not required
Separate account
No
Maximum Security Deposit
2 months's rent
General cap under §55.1-1226.
Return Deadline
45 days
After the later of tenancy termination or actual vacancy; check full statute for repair-extension conditions.
Interest on Deposit
Not required
Va. Code Ann. §55.1-1226 does not require interest on deposits.
Separate Account Required
Not required
§55.1-1226 does not establish a universal separate-account mandate; real-estate-licensee obligations under §54.1-2108 need separate review.
⚖️ Permitted Deductions
Accrued rent/reasonable lease late fees; damage beyond wear; other contractual charges; actual breach damages.
📋 Official Source
The information on this page is sourced from the primary Virginia statute. Always verify against the current official text before making decisions.
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Virginia?
Virginia law limits security deposits to 2 months's rent. General cap under §55.1-1226.
How long does a landlord have to return the security deposit in Virginia?
Virginia landlords must return the security deposit — or provide a written itemized statement of deductions — within 45 days after the tenancy ends. After the later of tenancy termination or actual vacancy; check full statute for repair-extension conditions.
Does Virginia require landlords to pay interest on security deposits?
No. Virginia law does not require landlords to pay interest to tenants on security deposits. Va. Code Ann. §55.1-1226 does not require interest on deposits.
Must Virginia landlords keep security deposits in a separate bank account?
No. Virginia law does not require a separate bank account for security deposits. §55.1-1226 does not establish a universal separate-account mandate; real-estate-licensee obligations under §54.1-2108 need separate review.
Automate security deposit compliance
Property management software handles deposit tracking, deadline reminders, itemized deduction statements, and compliant separate account requirements automatically — so you never miss a Virginia deadline.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security deposit laws change — always verify the current statute or consult a licensed attorney in Virginia before making decisions. Official source: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title55.1/chapter12/section55.1-1226/. Last reviewed: 2026-10-10.