Your complete guide to renter protections in Arlington, VA. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Virginia state protections.
No
Rent Control
45
Days to Return Deposit
2 months' rent
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Arlington does not have local rent control. Virginia state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Arlington may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Virginia law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Arlington-specific laws and ordinances
Arlington Tenant-Landlord Commission for dispute resolution
County relocation assistance for displaced tenants
Virginia RLTA governs deposit and habitability protections
Local ordinances work alongside Virginia state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Virginia state protections.
Laws that apply to all Virginia renters
Max Security Deposit
2 months' rent
Deposit Return Deadline
45 days
Entry Notice Required
72 hours
Governing Statute
Virginia Code
Common questions about renting in Arlington
No, Arlington does not currently have local rent control. Virginia state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
In Arlington, the Virginia state limit of 2 months' rent applies. Landlords must return deposits within 45 days after you move out.
Arlington tenants benefit from several protections: Arlington Tenant-Landlord Commission for dispute resolution; County relocation assistance for displaced tenants; Virginia RLTA governs deposit and habitability protections. These are in addition to Virginia state law.
You can contact the Arlington local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Virginia attorney general's office for state-level violations.
Upload your lease to see how it complies with Arlington and Virginia law. Honestkey™ checks every clause against local and state statutes.
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Contact the Arlington housing authority for local assistance, complaints, and Section 8 programs.
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