A Virginia lease termination letter (30-day notice) is a written document a landlord or tenant uses to inform the other party of their intent to end a month-to-month tenancy. 30 days is the notice period according to state law, but it can differ if stated in the original rental agreement.
If the tenant is the receiving party, they must vacate the property before the 30-day period is over. Otherwise, the landlord can initiate an action for possession. If applicable, the tenant may pay court costs, attorney fees, and damages.
Governing Law — Code of VA § 55.1-1253(A).
Multiple Leases — If a landlord chooses not to renew multiple month-to-month leases, they must provide 60 days’ notice. State law defines multiple leases as more than 20 leases or 50% of the landlord’s leases, whichever figure is greater.
Reasons to Use a 30-Day Notice to Vacate
Explore some reasons to use a 30-day notice to vacate:
- Versatility for Both Parties: This notice allows both parties flexibility with a month-to-month lease. A tenant can have a temporary residence without a long-term commitment, and a landlord can change their lease terms by evicting a tenant and finding a new one.
- Lease Termination Without Cause: A landlord can terminate a lease with this notice without providing a reason. If they provide adequate notice, they can end the lease without cause.
