Are landlords allowed to require tenants to pay a security deposit in accordance with Fair Housing Law?

Yes, landlords in Virginia are allowed to require tenants to pay a security deposit in accordance with Fair Housing Law. Security deposits help landlords protect their property by covering the costs associated with damages that can occur when a tenant fails to meet the terms of the lease. It also is intended to cover unpaid rent. Landlords in Virginia can set the amount of the security deposit, as long as it is not excessive and does not discriminate against tenants on the basis of race, religion, skin color, national origin, familial status, disability, gender, or any other protected class. This is based on the Fair Housing Act, which is the federal anti-discrimination law that was established in 1968 to protect individuals from discrimination based on race, color, national origin and religion. The rules for the return of security deposits in Virginia are outlined in the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Generally, the landlord must return the security deposit within 45 days of the tenant moving out of the rental property. In some cases, such as if there is damage to the property, landlords may keep part or all of the security deposit to cover the cost of repairs. In conclusion, it is legal for landlords in Virginia to require tenants to pay a security deposit, as long as it is not excessive and does not discriminate against tenants on the basis of race, religion, skin color, national origin, familial status, disability, gender, or any other protected class. Furthermore, the rules for the return of security deposits are outlined in the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

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