Va. Code § 55.1-1226(C) - Willful noncompliance in bad faith allows actual damages + reasonable attorney fees: Virginia statute explainer

Plain-English explanation of bad faith penalties with actionable next steps.

Reviewed: 2026-03-03

Reviewer: ReclaimDeposit legal research team

Deadline context

45 days

Penalty context

Actual damages

Primary statute

Va. Code § 55.1-1226 (Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act)

How to use this statute in your case

Quick answers to the questions renters usually have before citing this statute in a demand letter or court filing.

This section governs bad faith penalties and should be cited when disputing wrongful withholding under Virginia law.

45 days after termination of tenancy and possession delivery (45 days).

Actual damages + reasonable attorney fees for willful noncompliance.

Turn this citation into an actionable demand and timeline.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions renters usually have before citing this statute in a demand letter or court filing.

This section governs bad faith penalties and should be cited when disputing wrongful withholding under Virginia law.

45 days after termination of tenancy and possession delivery (45 days).

Actual damages + reasonable attorney fees for willful noncompliance.