Renters in Virginia have more than just the right to a habitable home—they also have legal obligations to help maintain it. These responsibilities are clearly outlined under the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) and are designed to protect the living environment, the lease, and the tenant-landlord relationship.
Understanding these duties helps prevent lease violations, reduce the risk of security deposit deductions, and support a positive rental history.
What Are Tenants Legally Responsible For in Virginia?
Under VRLTA § 55.1-1227, tenants must:
Keep the property clean and sanitary
Dispose of garbage properly
Use appliances, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems responsibly
Avoid negligent or deliberate property damage
Report needed repairs in a timely manner
Follow local housing, health, and safety codes
A tenant's legal responsibility also extends to small repairs that might occur due to their actions. For example, if a tenant accidentally breaks a window or causes damage to the property, they must repair or replace the damaged item or pay for the costs of repair.
Noncompliance can result in fines, non-renewal of the lease, or deductions from the security deposit.
Practical Examples of Tenant Responsibilities
1. Cleanliness & Sanitation
Regular cleaning of kitchens, bathrooms, and floors
Mold and mildew prevention through proper ventilation and drying
Proper food storage to avoid pest infestations
2. Appropriate Use of Systems
Avoid using ovens or stoves as heating sources
Prevent overloading of power strips or electrical outlets
Flush only toilet paper
3. Damage Prevention
Avoid hanging heavy objects without proper supports
Prevent actions that lead to broken doors, mirrors, or fixtures
Protect surfaces from pet-related damage
4. Timely Reporting
Report water leaks, HVAC issues, or pest problems without delay
Delayed reporting may lead to shared liability
Note: Maintenance requests should be submitted in writing, and documentation should be retained.
Optional Maintenance by Tenants
In some cases, landlords may assign additional upkeep tasks through the lease agreement. These tasks must be explicitly documented and might include:
Lawn care or landscaping maintenance
HVAC filter replacements
Lightbulb or battery changes
Snow removal (especially in single-family rentals)
In the absence of such written agreements, these responsibilities default to the landlord.
Because these responsibilities are often negotiated, it can vary from one property to another. For example, some landlords may request tenants to care for the lawn or garden, shovel snow during the winter, or handle minor cleaning tasks while others do not.
These optional responsibilities can be a good way to help tenants feel more involved in the property's upkeep and can reduce the number of tasks that fall on the landlord's shoulders. It's essential for both parties to discuss these optional duties upfront and include them in the lease agreement to avoid confusion later.
Mold Prevention: A Shared Responsibility
Tenants play a key role in preventing mold growth by:
Using ventilation systems in high-moisture areas
Running dehumidifiers where appropriate
Promptly reporting leaks or signs of water damage
Cleaning surfaces susceptible to mold
If mold growth results from tenant negligence, cleanup may be the tenant’s responsibility. Mold from structural or system issues falls under landlord responsibility.
Damage and Security Deposits
Tenants are liable for damage caused by negligence, misuse, or accidents. Common deductions from security deposits include:
Broken mirrors or fixtures
Damaged flooring or carpet
Missing smoke detectors
Wall or door damage
Recommendation: Tenants should document the property's condition at move-in and provide dated exit photos upon moving out.
Supporting a Positive Tenant Record
Responsible tenants can maintain a strong rental history by:
Adhering to lease terms
Maintaining the unit appropriately
Communicating promptly and clearly with the landlord
Taking responsibility for tenant-caused repairs
This approach helps support:
Positive landlord references
Full return of the security deposit
Smooth lease renewal negotiations
Renting with Confidence in Virginia
In summary, understanding tenant maintenance responsibilities is important for both landlords and tenants. Being a responsible renter in Virginia includes more than timely rent payments. A clear understanding of maintenance responsibilities protects the home, legal rights, and reputation.
Tenants seeking well-managed rental properties with clear policies and responsive maintenance support can view available properties. Tenants may also contact us today to learn more about how our full-service property management solutions can help you.
