Charlottesville Landlord-Tenant Dispute Lawyers
What we do for property renters
A well written, Virginia-specific lease is essential to successful landlord-tenant relations. Kelly Roberts, Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. lawyer in Charlottesville, helps create legal boundaries that protect her clients’ interests in residential leases. When disputes arise because of either party’s failure to abide by the lease, she interprets the contract language in light of Virginia law and pursues compliance, eviction, or compensation as necessary through negotiation or litigation.
Frequently asked questions about Virginia landlord-tenant law
I moved out of my leased building or apartment more than 30 days ago but the landlord has not refunded my security deposit yet. What can I do?
- Follow building and housing codes affecting health and safety.
- Make all repairs needed to keep the place fit and habitable.
- Keep in good and safe working order all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and other facilities and appliances that the landlord supplies.
- Prevent or remove rodent infestations.
- Landlords covered by the VRLTA must also keep clean and safe any common areas used by more than one tenant.
As a tenant, what am I required to do?
Under Virginia law, all tenants must do these things:
- Keep your rented space and plumbing as clean and safe as conditions permit.
- Use all utilities and appliances reasonably.
- Get rid of trash.
- Do not destroy or damage the property, or allow household members or guests to do so.
- Do not disturb your neighbors, or allow household members or guests to do so.
- Follow the lease and reasonable rules of your landlord.
What is your fee structure?
We handle cases on a flat fee or hourly basis. We offer initial consultations at our hourly rate. At the end of the consultation, we can determine the appropriate fee structure for your case, and you can evaluate our services and decide if you want to hire us.
