Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia

Damage to Property by Tenant

I have a tenant who damaged my property because I gave him a five day pay or quit notice. What legal actions am I entitled to take? Is there a way for me to get him out of the unit immediatley, without going thru the long eviction process, so that he can not do more damage? Can I press charges against him?


Asked on 8/20/08, 11:04 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Susan Allen The Law Office of Susan E. Allen, PLLC

Re: Damage to Property by Tenant

Commence an unlawful detainer action. When you appear in court, request an immediate writ of possession.

You may have options related to the destruction of property. You may keep the security deposit to the extent necessary to repair the premises. If the security deposit is insufficient, you may request damages (in addition to any past due rent). You may consider a criminal charge for vandalism, however law enforcement may deem this to be a civil matter, not a criminal matter.

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Answered on 8/20/08, 1:26 pm


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