A West Virginia Standard Lease Agreement is a formal contract used by property owners to lease their premises to tenants for a set duration, it typically spans a period of one year.
Before or on the move-in date, a residential lease may also request a security deposit from the tenant as a precautionary measure against potential property damage in the future.
Considerations on Lease Length
- Leases can generally be of any length of time, provided that the term is specific and agreed upon in writing by both the landlord and tenant.
- Oral leases, however, are typically not permissible for terms exceeding one year (West Virginia Code §36-1-3).
Security Deposit
- Maximum Amount ($): No state-imposed limit
- Returning to Tenant: Within 45 days of their occupancy or within 60 days after the original tenant moves out, whichever is shorter (W. Va. Code § 37-6A-1(7) & § 37-6A-2(a)).
Rent Grace Period
There is no rent grace period before assessing late fees.
Landlord Resources
- Landlord-Tenant Laws – § 37-6(Landlord and Tenant).
- Handbook – Tenants and Landlords in Virginia Guide.
