Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB1845

Introduced
1/10/23  

Caption

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; noncompliance with rental agreement.

Impact

If enacted, HB1845 would significantly impact how landlords manage tenant noncompliance cases, particularly with regard to families with dependent children and elderly tenants. By requiring landlords to inform tenants about the possibility of housing assistance before taking further legal action, the bill aims to provide these vulnerable groups with protection and support in potentially precarious housing situations. This change encourages a more compassionate approach to tenant relations and recognizes the complexities of housing stability.

Summary

House Bill 1845 proposes amendments to the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically addressing situations where a landlord intends to terminate a rental agreement due to tenant noncompliance. The bill mandates that when a landlord serves notice of such intent and the tenant has a dependent child under 18 years or an elderly individual who is mentally or physically incapacitated residing with them, the landlord must notify the tenant of their option to contact the local department of social services. This notification aims to ensure that vulnerable tenants are made aware of available housing assistance resources.

Contention

There may be concerns about the practicality of the bill's implementation from landlords, who could argue that additional notification requirements could complicate the eviction process and prolong resolution times. Opponents may view the bill as an extra burden on landlords, particularly those managing multiple properties. However, proponents argue that this requirement is crucial for protecting tenants' rights and ensuring that those most at risk of losing their homes are not left without recourse or support. The balance between protecting tenants and maintaining landlords' rights may be a point of contention in legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA SB596

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA SB596

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB1719

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; landlord remedies; noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA SB812

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB803

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB598

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB1652

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB1830

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA SB1330

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; landlord remedies, noncompliance with rental agreement.

VA HB196

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; noncompliance with rental agreement, grace period.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.