LawLease
Log in
LawLease1/2

Free Virginia Move-In /
Move-Out Inspection Checklist Template

Last reviewed September 2026

Written by LawLease Editorial

Free template

Download a free Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist template

A blank, printable form — fill it in by hand. Or build a guided version with Virginia set as the governing state. Create a free account to download.

Build a guided Virginia version

Virginia Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist

This Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist is built with Virginia as the governing state. These are the Virginia landlord-tenant rules that most often bear on it, with the statute for each.

Virginia rules at a glance

Virginia rules for a Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist
Security deposit limit2 months’ rent, including any up-front damage or renter’s insurance premiumsVa. Code §§55.1-1226(A), 55.1-1206(C)
Deposit return45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant moves out, whichever is later, with an itemized noticeVa. Code §55.1-1226(A)
Insurance instead of a depositA landlord may let the tenant buy approved damage insurance instead of paying a deposit; the tenant can switch to paying the full deposit at any time (§55.1-1226(I)–(J)).

Security deposits in Virginia

A Virginia landlord may not collect a security deposit, however it is labeled, of more than two months’ periodic rent (§55.1-1226(A)). If the landlord also collects damage-insurance or renter’s-insurance premiums before the tenancy starts, the deposit and premiums together still can’t exceed two months’ rent (§55.1-1206(C)).

  • Move-in report — Within 5 days after occupancy, the landlord must give the tenant a written report itemizing existing damage — including whether there is visible mold. It is deemed correct unless the tenant objects in writing within 5 days (§§55.1-1214, 55.1-1215).
  • Move-out inspection — Within 5 days of learning the tenant intends to leave, the landlord must tell the tenant of the right to attend the move-out inspection; if the tenant asks in writing to attend, the inspection must happen within 72 hours of delivery of possession (§55.1-1226(G)).
  • Return — The deposit, less lawful deductions, must be returned with a written itemization within 45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant moves out, whichever is later. Allowed deductions are unpaid rent and lease-specified late charges, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, and other charges in the lease (§55.1-1226(A)).
  • Contractor extension — If damage exceeds the deposit and needs a third-party contractor, the landlord may give written notice within the 45 days and take an extra 15 days to itemize (§55.1-1226(E)).
  • Willful violations — A court will order the deposit returned plus actual damages and reasonable attorney fees if the landlord willfully fails to comply (§55.1-1226(E)).
  • Insurance instead of a deposit — A landlord may let the tenant buy approved damage insurance instead of paying a deposit; the tenant can switch to paying the full deposit at any time (§55.1-1226(I)–(J)).

Virginia Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist FAQs

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Virginia?

No more than two months’ periodic rent. Any damage- or renter’s-insurance premiums collected up front count toward that same two-month ceiling (§§55.1-1226(A), 55.1-1206(C)).

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Virginia?

45 days after the tenancy ends or the tenant moves out, whichever is later, together with a written itemization of any deductions. If damage exceeds the deposit and requires a contractor, the landlord can notify the tenant within the 45 days and take 15 more days to itemize (§55.1-1226).

More Virginia landlord documents

Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist in other states

Create your document in under 5 minutes

Answer a few plain questions, then download or e-sign. Built for landlords and tenants.

Get started
LawLease

LawLease LLC is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. The information, documents, and services available through LawLease are provided for informational and self-help purposes only and are not a substitute for the advice of an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This document is a general-purpose template, not legal advice. Laws vary by state and city, and an unusual situation deserves a lawyer’s review.

Documents you generate are yours to keep. Every edit and signature is recorded in an audit trail, so you can show exactly what was signed and when.

Using LawLease means you accept our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer. Bot protection is provided by reCAPTCHA — Google’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.