1. Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
If this property was built before 1978, the following applies:
- Month2Month will disclose any known lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards in the property prior to lease execution.
- Month2Month will provide all available records and reports pertaining to lead-based paint in the property.
- The tenant will receive a copy of the EPA-approved pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home."
For more information: National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (5323) or www.epa.gov/lead.
2. Security Deposit
Deposit Limits
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1226, security deposits for residential tenancies are limited to a maximum of two months' rent. This cap applies regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished.
Permitted Uses
Your security deposit may be used for: unpaid rent or other charges owed under the rental agreement; damages to the premises beyond reasonable wear and tear caused by the tenant, authorized occupants, or guests; and other charges as provided in the rental agreement.
Return of Deposit
Within 45 days after the termination of the tenancy and delivery of possession, Month2Month will return the security deposit or provide a written itemized list of deductions. If damages exceed the security deposit, Month2Month will provide an itemized list of damages and the amount owed within 45 days.
Move-Out Inspection
You have the right to be present at the move-out inspection. Month2Month will provide reasonable notice of the date and time of the inspection. You may request a written report of the inspection findings.
Disputes
If you dispute any deduction, you may seek resolution through Virginia General District Court. If a court finds that Month2Month wrongfully withheld your security deposit, you may be entitled to the return of the deposit plus actual damages, reasonable attorney fees, and interest at the legal rate.
3. Owner and Property Manager Information
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1216, the landlord must disclose in writing to the tenant the name and address of the person authorized to manage the premises and an owner of the premises or a person authorized to act for and on behalf of the owner for the purpose of service of process and receiving notices and demands.
Your lease agreement contains the specific owner information, property manager contact information, emergency maintenance contact, and the person authorized to receive service of process for your property. Month2Month serves as the property manager for all properties in our portfolio.
General Contact: [email protected]
4. Move-In Inspection Report
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1214, the landlord must prepare a written report detailing the condition of the premises at the commencement of the tenancy. Both the landlord and tenant shall sign the report, and a copy shall be provided to the tenant.
The move-in inspection report documents the condition of all rooms, fixtures, appliances, furnishings, and other items present in the property at the time of move-in. This report serves as the baseline for assessing damages at the end of your tenancy.
Tenant Participation
- You have the right to be present during the move-in inspection.
- You should note any pre-existing damage or deficiencies on the inspection report.
- If you disagree with any findings, note your objections on the report before signing.
- You will receive a signed copy of the completed report for your records.
5. Mold Disclosure
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1215, the landlord must disclose whether the landlord knows of any visible evidence of mold in areas readily accessible within the dwelling unit. The landlord must also disclose any mold condition that has been previously identified and remediated.
Month2Month is not aware of any visible mold in the rental property at the time of your lease. If mold has been previously identified and remediated in the property, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement.
Tenant Responsibilities to Prevent Mold
- Ventilate your home: Open windows regularly, use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and ensure air circulation.
- Control moisture: Wipe up spills and leaks immediately, do not let water accumulate, and report any leaks or water damage to Month2Month immediately.
- Use heating and air conditioning: Maintain reasonable temperatures and use climate control systems to reduce humidity.
- Clean regularly: Regular cleaning prevents mold from establishing itself.
- Report problems immediately: If you see mold, smell musty odors, or notice water damage, report it to Month2Month right away.
Virginia law requires landlords to maintain rental properties in habitable condition and to respond promptly to reports of mold or moisture problems. If mold develops due to landlord negligence (such as failure to repair leaks), the landlord is responsible for remediation.
6. Bed Bug Disclosure
Virginia law addresses the responsibilities of landlords and tenants regarding bed bug infestations in rental properties.
Identification
Bed bugs have six legs and flat bodies about 1/4 inch long, ranging from red-brown to copper colored. They do not fly but move quickly over surfaces. They hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture crevices, baseboards, and wall cracks. They feed on human blood at night.
Signs of Infestation
Look for small blood stains on sheets, dark spots (excrement) on mattresses or walls, shed skins, and a sweet musty odor. Bites may appear as red, itchy welts in a line or cluster, though some people do not react.
Prevention
- Inspect your mattress, box spring, and bed frame regularly.
- When traveling, inspect hotel rooms and luggage before returning home.
- Do not bring used mattresses or upholstered furniture into the home without thorough inspection.
- Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places.
Month2Month has no knowledge of any bed bug infestation in your specific rental unit. If Month2Month becomes aware of bed bug infestation during your tenancy, you will be notified immediately and professional treatment will be arranged.
Landlord's Obligation
Under Virginia law, a landlord may not knowingly lease a unit with a bed bug infestation. Month2Month certifies that, to its knowledge, no unit is offered for lease with a known active bed bug infestation. If an infestation is discovered between turnovers, the unit will be professionally treated and verified clear before a new tenant takes occupancy.
7. Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
All Month2Month rental properties are equipped with operable smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in compliance with Virginia law. Smoke detectors are installed in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the dwelling. Carbon monoxide detectors are required in dwelling units that contain a fossil-fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage.
Tenant Responsibilities
- Do not disable, disconnect, cover, or tamper with any smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector. This is a violation of Virginia law.
- Test all devices monthly by pressing the test button.
- Report immediately if any device is chirping, not functioning, or missing.
- Do not remove batteries.
- If you hear the carbon monoxide alarm sound continuously, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Month2Month is responsible for ensuring all devices are operable at the beginning of each tenancy and for maintaining them throughout, including replacing batteries and units as needed. Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1220.1, the tenant is responsible for maintaining the devices by keeping batteries replaced and notifying the landlord of any malfunctions.
8. Flood Hazard Disclosure
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1217, the landlord must disclose to the tenant if the property is located in a 100-year floodplain or if the landlord has knowledge that the property is prone to flooding. If the property has been subject to flooding within the past five years, this must also be disclosed.
If your property is located in a special flood hazard area as designated by FEMA, or has experienced flooding, this information will be disclosed in your lease agreement or property-specific addendum.
9. Sex Offender Registry Notice (Megan's Law)
Virginia law does not require landlords to investigate or disclose the presence of registered sex offenders near rental properties. This notice informs you of the existence of the registry so you can conduct your own research.
10. Domestic Violence Protections
Right to Terminate Lease Early
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1236, a tenant who is a victim of family abuse as defined in VA Code §16.1-228, sexual abuse, or criminal sexual assault may terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice to the landlord along with supporting documentation, including:
- A copy of a protective order issued by a Virginia court
- A conviction of the perpetrator for an act of violence against the tenant
- A police report documenting the incident
Right to Request Lock Changes
A tenant who is a victim of family abuse may request that the landlord change the locks to the dwelling unit. Month2Month will change the locks within 24 hours of receiving a written request accompanied by qualifying documentation.
Protection from Eviction
A landlord may not terminate a rental agreement or refuse to renew a rental agreement solely because a tenant is a victim of family abuse, sexual abuse, or criminal sexual assault, or because a tenant has obtained a protective order.
Resources
- Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-838-8238
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
11. Military Personnel Early Lease Termination
Federal and Virginia law provide protections for military service members regarding residential leases.
Federal Protections (SCRA)
Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, a service member may terminate a residential lease if the service member receives military orders for a permanent change of station (PCS) or deployment orders for a period of at least 90 days. The lease terminates 30 days after the next rent payment is due following proper notice.
Virginia Protections
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1236, a tenant who is an active-duty member of the armed forces of the United States, including the National Guard and reserve components, may terminate a rental agreement by providing:
- Written notice to the landlord at least 30 days prior to the next rent due date
- A copy of the official military orders or a letter from the commanding officer confirming the qualifying event
Qualifying Events
- Permanent change of station (PCS) orders
- Deployment orders for 90 days or more
- Orders to report to military housing
- Release from active duty or discharge
Month2Month will not impose any early termination penalty on a service member who properly terminates under the SCRA or Virginia law.
12. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) Disclosures
Your tenancy is governed by the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), codified at VA Code §55.1-1200 et seq. The VRLTA establishes the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants in Virginia.
Key VRLTA Provisions
- Habitability: The landlord must maintain the premises in a fit and habitable condition, including compliance with applicable building and housing codes, working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, and adequate weatherproofing.
- Access: The landlord must provide at least 24 hours' notice before entering the unit (except in emergencies) and may only enter at reasonable times for reasonable purposes.
- Retaliation: The landlord may not retaliate against a tenant who exercises rights under the VRLTA, files a complaint with a government agency, or participates in a tenant organization.
- Rent Escrow: If the landlord fails to maintain the premises, the tenant may apply to the general district court to place rent in escrow until repairs are made.
Defective Conditions
Pursuant to VA Code §55.1-1234, if there is a condition in the dwelling unit that constitutes a material noncompliance by the landlord with the rental agreement or a violation of the VRLTA, the tenant may provide written notice to the landlord specifying the condition. If the landlord does not remedy the condition within 21 days (or a reasonable time for emergency conditions), the tenant may pursue remedies available under the VRLTA.
13. Furnished Property Disclosure
All Month2Month rental properties are provided fully furnished. All furniture, appliances, fixtures, and household items in the property are the property of Month2Month or the property owner and are provided for your use during the term of your lease.
Your Responsibilities
- Maintain all furnished items in the same condition as received, allowing for ordinary wear and tear.
- Use all items for their intended purpose only.
- Do not remove any furnished items from the property.
- Report any damage to furnished items within 48 hours of discovery.
- Do not repair or replace items yourself without prior written approval.
Damage vs. Normal Wear and Tear
| Normal Wear and Tear (Not Chargeable) | Damage (Chargeable to Tenant) |
|---|---|
| Minor scuffs on furniture | Broken furniture legs, arms, or frames |
| Slight fading of upholstery | Stains, tears, or burns on upholstery |
| Minor mattress indentation from normal use | Mattress stains, tears, or structural damage |
| Light scratches on hard floors | Deep gouges, water damage, or burns on flooring |
| Normal appliance wear (cosmetic marks) | Appliance malfunction due to misuse or neglect |
| Gradual thinning of towels and linens | Bleach stains, tears, or missing linens |
| Normal dulling of kitchen knives | Missing, broken, or chipped dishes/cookware |
| Loose doorknobs from use | Holes in walls, broken blinds, damaged doors |
Replacement Responsibility
- Tenant-caused damage: Tenant is responsible for the cost of repair or replacement (at depreciated value) of items damaged beyond normal wear and tear. Costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
- Missing items: Tenant is responsible for full replacement cost.
- Normal wear items: Month2Month replaces items that reach end-of-life through normal use.
- Appliance malfunction: If an appliance fails due to normal use or age, Month2Month is responsible for repair or replacement.
Cleaning Standards
The property must be returned in the same level of cleanliness as at move-in. Maintain the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, furniture, and linens in clean condition throughout your tenancy. If professional cleaning is required beyond what is attributable to normal wear and tear, cleaning costs may be deducted from the security deposit.
Inventory
A detailed furniture and household inventory checklist will be provided at move-in. Month2Month will document the condition of all items through photography. You will receive a copy of the move-in condition report.
14. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
Your Rights
- Habitable Housing: Your rental unit must meet basic health and safety standards, including weatherproofing, plumbing, heating, electricity, and compliance with applicable building and housing codes. (VA Code §55.1-1220)
- Privacy: Your landlord must give at least 24 hours' notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies) and may only enter at reasonable times for reasonable purposes. (VA Code §55.1-1229)
- Return of Security Deposit: Your deposit must be returned within 45 days after move-out, with an itemized statement of any deductions. (VA Code §55.1-1226)
- Freedom from Discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, source of funds, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, or disability. (Virginia Fair Housing Law, VA Code §36-96.1 et seq.)
- Freedom from Retaliation: Your landlord cannot retaliate against you for exercising your legal rights, filing a complaint, or joining a tenant organization. (VA Code §55.1-1258)
- Repairs and Maintenance: You have the right to request repairs for health and safety issues, and your landlord must respond within a reasonable time. (VA Code §55.1-1234)
- Protection from Unlawful Eviction: Your landlord must follow proper legal procedures and cannot use "self-help" eviction methods such as changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing doors or windows. (VA Code §55.1-1243)
- Rent Escrow: If the landlord fails to maintain the premises, you may petition the court to place rent in escrow until repairs are completed. (VA Code §55.1-1244)
Your Responsibilities
- Pay rent in full and on time.
- Keep the unit clean and sanitary.
- Avoid damaging the property beyond normal wear and tear.
- Promptly report maintenance issues, leaks, mold, pests, or safety hazards.
- Allow reasonable access for repairs and inspections with proper notice.
- Comply with all lease terms including occupancy limits, pet policies, and use restrictions.
- Avoid creating nuisances or disturbing other residents.
- Use all electrical, plumbing, sanitary, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems and elevators in a reasonable manner.
- Provide proper notice before moving out and return the property in clean condition.
Resources
- Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: www.dhcd.virginia.gov
- Virginia Legal Aid: www.valegalaid.org
- Virginia Tenant Rights Handbook: available through legal aid organizations
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Virginia Fair Housing Office: 1-888-551-3247