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HB 174

Va. Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; early termination of rental agreement by military personnel.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Katrina Callsen and 4 co-sponsors

Virginia bill allows military personnel to early-terminate rental leases without penalty upon deployment or reassignment orders, reducing financial hardship for service members.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 82 (effective 7/1/2026)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 174

Legislative bill overview

HB 174 amends Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to permit military personnel to terminate rental agreements early without penalty under specified circumstances. The bill likely addresses situations where service members receive deployment orders or permanent change of station (PCS) orders that require relocation on short notice, allowing them to break leases that would otherwise bind them to financial obligations.

Why is this important

Military families face unique housing challenges due to involuntary relocations ordered by the Department of Defense, potentially leaving them liable for remaining lease payments while unable to occupy the property. This bill reduces financial hardship for service members and their families while potentially lowering litigation costs for landlords by creating a clear legal framework for military-related early terminations. The near-unanimous committee support (21-0, 10-0) suggests broad recognition of this issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Landlord compensation: Whether landlords receive adequate notice periods or compensation for early termination, balancing military needs against property owners' revenue interests
  • Definition scope: Which military situations qualify (active duty orders only, reserves, National Guard) and whether the provision applies to all lease types
  • Notice requirements and timelines: How much advance notice must be provided and whether 30, 60, or 90 days is reasonable for landlords to find replacement tenants

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

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