Bill > SB815

This bill amends the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to prohibit landlords who own more than four rental dwelling units from taking adverse actions against prospective tenants based on their history of dismissed, nonsuited, or expungement-eligible unlawful detainer cases. Specifically, such landlords cannot deny a rental application, increase security deposits or rent, or impose more restrictive lease terms due to these past legal proceedings. An unlawful detainer case is a legal action by a landlord to evict a tenant, and this bill protects tenants from being penalized for such cases that were ultimately dismissed or could be expunged from their record. If a landlord violates this provision, the prospective tenant can sue and potentially recover actual damages (such as application fees and expenses), statutory damages of $1,000, and reasonable attorney fees. This legislation aims to prevent discrimination against tenants who may have previously been involved in housing-related legal disputes that did not result in a final adverse judgment against them.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB815