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Bill

SB 77

Repairs or maintenance of property; entering adjoining property, petition for entry.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Schuyler VanValkenburg

SB 77 allows Virginia property owners to petition courts for judicial authorization to access adjoining properties when repairs or maintenance on their own property requires it.

Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
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Bill Summary · SB 77

Legislative bill overview

SB 77 establishes a legal petition process allowing property owners to obtain court authorization to enter adjoining properties for necessary repairs or maintenance work. The bill creates a formal mechanism where a property owner can petition a court if an adjoining property owner refuses or cannot be reached to grant access needed for legitimate maintenance activities on their own property.

Why is this important

This addresses a practical problem where property owners can be blocked from maintaining their own buildings due to lack of access across neighboring land. Without such legal recourse, owners could face deteriorating conditions, safety hazards, or code violations through no fault of their own. The bill balances property rights by providing judicial oversight rather than allowing unilateral entry.

Potential points of contention

  • Private property rights concerns: Opponents may argue the bill infringes on adjoining owners' right to control who enters their land, even for a limited purpose
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Questions about what qualifies as "necessary" repairs versus discretionary improvements, and whether the bill adequately protects against abuse
  • Burden and cost allocation: Unclear whether the petitioning owner bears all costs or if expenses could be shifted to the adjoining property owner, and what happens if damage occurs during access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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