Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination

Last Updated: March 6, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination evicts a tenant for a repeat lease violation or committing a willful, criminal act on the premises. The tenant is not given an opportunity to take corrective action, and must move out within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving notice.

When To Use a Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination

A Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination begins an eviction in these situations:

  • If the tenant repeats a  violation for which there has been a previous notice of noncompliance (or one substantially similar)
  • If the tenant commits a willful, criminal act that threatens the health or safety of other persons on the premises

Some types of Virginia lease termination notice may allow different reasons for termination, or different notice periods. This may also apply to an eviction notice issued because of a lease or legal violation.

    How To Write a Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination

    To help ensure the legal compliance of a Notice of Termination:

    1. Use the full name of the receiving party, and address of record, if known
    2. Specify the basis upon which the tenancy will terminate
    3. Specify the termination date of the lease or tenancy
    4. Fill in the full address of the rental premises
    5. Provide updated/current address and phone number information
    6. Print name and sign the notice
    7. Complete the certificate of service by indicating the date and method of notice delivery, along with printed name and signature

    It is easy to lose an otherwise justified legal action because of improper notice. Check carefully to ensure enough time after notice is delivered, not when it’s sent.

    How To Serve a Virginia 30 Day Notice of Termination

    Virginia law isn’t strict or specific on method of delivery for an initial eviction notice. The law requires notice in writing. Electronic notice is allowed if provided for in the rental agreement, although the tenant can opt into paper notice upon request. Notice must be delivered to the tenant’s last known place of residence.

    For maximum legal compliance, these are the methods of service accepted for an action in court:

    1. Hand delivery to the tenant
    2. Only if personal service is not possible: Hand delivery to a family member at least age 16 who is residing at the property
    3. Only if no form of hand delivery is possible: Posting the notice at the front door or entrance of the property, PLUS mailed notice by first class mail including a certificate of mailing

    Mailed notice extends a notice period by (3) calendar days, to account for variable delivery times.

    note
    Once an eviction action is filed in court, serving the summons on the tenant will require one of the methods specified, and electronic notice will not be allowed.

    Sources