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Bill

HB 1361

Virginia Residential Landlord & Tenant Act; civil action for unlawful detainer, termination notice.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rae Cousins and 3 co-sponsors

HB 1361 modifies Virginia eviction procedures and termination notice requirements in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, affecting both tenant protections and landlord enforcement timelines.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 783 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1361

Legislative bill overview

HB 1361 modifies Virginia's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically addressing procedures for unlawful detainer actions (evictions) and termination notice requirements. The bill appears to adjust the legal framework governing how landlords can remove tenants and what notice periods must be provided before eviction proceedings begin.

Why is this important

Eviction procedures directly affect housing stability for renters and rental income predictability for landlords. Changes to notice periods and unlawful detainer processes can significantly impact how quickly people lose housing and their ability to challenge evictions, making this relevant to both tenant advocacy and property owner communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Notice period duration – Any changes to required notice timeframes will be contested by advocates arguing for tenant protections versus landlords seeking faster removal processes
  • Grounds for eviction – Disputes may arise over which tenant behaviors justify unlawful detainer actions and whether protections for vulnerable populations are adequate
  • Procedural fairness – Questions about whether the modified process provides sufficient opportunity for tenants to respond or cure violations before formal eviction proceedings

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

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