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Bill

Bill

HB 2218

Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; rental payment methods.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 4 co-sponsors

Virginia rental law now regulates landlord payment methods and fees to ensure tenants have affordable, accessible options for paying rent without excessive surcharges.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0655)
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Bill Summary · HB 2218

Legislative bill overview

HB 2218 modifies Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to regulate how landlords can accept rental payments from tenants. The bill establishes requirements around payment methods, likely addressing issues such as mandatory payment processing fees, acceptable payment channels, and tenant access to affordable payment options.

Why is this important

Rental payment methods directly affect tenant affordability and housing stability. Landlords who charge excessive processing fees or restrict payment options can effectively increase housing costs for renters. This legislation protects tenants from predatory payment practices while clarifying landlord obligations, impacting both the rental market and tenant financial accessibility across Virginia.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee burden allocation: Whether landlords or tenants bear the cost of payment processing fees (credit card processing, electronic transfers, etc.) creates friction between property management efficiency and tenant affordability
  • Payment method accessibility: Defining which payment methods landlords must accept (online, check, cash, automatic draft) versus optional methods, affecting tenants without banking access or technology options
  • Implementation costs: Small landlords managing properties independently may face higher compliance costs compared to large property management companies with existing systems

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

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