How To Report a Landlord in Virginia for Unsafe Living Conditions

How To Report a Landlord in Virginia for Unsafe Living Conditions

Last Updated: July 16, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

When a renter in Virginia can’t obtain necessary repairs, before beginning a court case it’s usually possible to file a report with the proper government departments about the unsafe conditions on the property. Code inspectors have the power to order repairs or fine noncompliant landlords.

What Are Considered Unsafe Living Conditions in Virginia?

In Virginia, unsafe living conditions exist when a rental property doesn’t have safe and working:

  • Plumbing
  • Required utilities
  • Heating
  • Hot running water
  • Garbage containers and removal
  • Required smoke alarms and provided carbon monoxide (CO) detectors
  • Provided appliances
  • Common areas
  • Features that affect health, safety, or habitability

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What Should Tenants Do Before Reporting a Violation in Virginia?

In most cases, before reporting a violation, a tenant in Virginia must notify the landlord in writing about the issue and ask him to fix it within 14-21 days, depending on the specific issue.

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How Can Tenants Report a Violation in Virginia?

Tenants in Virginia should report violations to the local office or officers responsible for housing code enforcement. The exact process depends on municipality.

Location Organization Contact
Virginia Beach Code Enforcement Online Form
Chesapeake Code Compliance Division Online Form
Arlington Code Enforcement Online Form

After receiving a complaint, an inspecting officer might contact the tenant for more information. Then the officer will usually inspect the property and cite the landlord for any code violations.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Virginia Beach?

A tenant in Virginia Beach can report a health or safety violation by calling Code Enforcement at (757) 385-4421 or using the provided online form. Most issues fall under “Maintenance -> Private Property Concerns.” Select a location, provide issue details and contact information, and submit.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Chesapeake?

A tenant in Chesapeake can report a health or safety violation by calling the Code Compliance Division at (757) 382-2489 or using the provided online form. Most issues fall under “Property Maintenance Violation.” Provide an address, detail the issue, enter contact information, attach additional information (optional), and submit.

How Can a Tenant Report a Health or Safety Violation in Arlington?

A tenant in Arlington can report a health or safety violation by calling Code Enforcement at (703) 228-3232 or using the provided online form. Select the “Code Enforcement” category, enter contact information, provide a detailed issue description including specific address, and submit.

What Could Happen to a Landlord After a Complaint Is Made in Virginia?

After a tenant files a complaint about unsafe living conditions in Virginia, an officer may inspect the property. The landlord must fix noted code violations. Otherwise, the landlord could be fined and the local government might file to condemn the property.

In Virginia, a property that’s been condemned after a tenant gave proper notice for repairs means the tenant can recover all related costs from the landlord in a lawsuit, and is no longer liable for the cost of rent.

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