Housing/Landlord Tenant

VLAS Publications

Housing/Landlord Tenant

VLAS Publications

» Your Rights as a Tenant During COVID-19 Outbreak 

Your landlord must follow obtain a court order to take certain actions against you.

» Can My Landlord Bar My Guest From My Rental Property? 

Reasons why your landlord may tell you that certain people are not allowed in your rental unit.  How the landlord can do that, and how you can respond.

» Fair Housing

Laws against discrimination in renting and selling homes.  What groups of people are covered by anti-discrimination housing laws?

» Federally Subsidized Housing-Tenant Based

Low-income housing for financially eligible households.  Tenant based low-income housing means that you have a voucher that allows you to rent from private landlords while the housing authority pays part of your rent.  An explanation of how it works and what your rights are.

» Federally Subsidized Housing- Unit Based

Low-income housing for financially eligible households. Unit based low-income housing means that you live in a particular complex managed by the housing authority, instead of being able to choose your place. An explanation of how it works and what your rights are.

» Foreclosure

Discusses the process by which your mortgage holder may foreclose on your home when you get behind in payments, and what you might be able to do to avoid foreclosure. Also, what happens after the foreclosure is completed?

» Home Ownership

A very general explanation of some of your rights and responsibilities when owning or buying your own home. VLAS does not assist with buying or selling a home.

» Mobile Home and Lot Renters

For those who are renting their mobile homes, and are renting the lot it sits on in a mobile home park with 10 or more lots.

» Public Housing

Low-income housing for financially eligible households. The complex is owned and managed by the local public housing authority.  Explains how to apply, and what your rights and responsibilities are, as well as the responsibilities of the housing authority.

» Rent to Own Housing

Some people try to buy a home by first renting it for a while, with the intent that the rent will be applied to the purchase price and they will eventually own it.  However, many deals that look or sound like a rent to own transaction really are not.  Read about some of the legal and financial considerations, what you should be careful about, and how you might end up owning nothing at all.

» Repairs and Maintenance of Rental Property

Landlord’s duty to keep your rental unit in safe and livable condition. Tenant’s share of the duties. What you can do if the landlord is not responding to your need for repairs.

» Security Deposits

Can my landlord refuse to return my security deposit after I move out? For what reasons? How can I get it back if the landlord doesn’t give it to me?

» Tax Relief for the Elderly and Disabled

Virginia offers income and real estate tax relief to some people who are disabled or are 65 and older. Learn how to check if you’re eligible.

» When Rental Property is Destroyed

What happens when the place you’re renting is destroyed by fire or some other casualty, whether through your fault, the landlord’s fault, or natural causes? What happens if your personal property is destroyed or damaged?

La Vivienda

VLAS Publications en Español

La Vivienda

VLAS Publications en Español

Helpful Resources

» Legal and Law Enforcement General Information

Law Enforcement and Court Information Only- No Legal Aid information