Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia
Rental Office and Police
Can a rental company allow the police into a person's residence if a tenant who is on the lease, but now residing at the address, makes a claim (true or false, but in this case false) that the remaining tennants are keeping drugs in the house? If the non-residing lease holder gives permission, but does not personally let police into the house, would that lease holders living quarters be the only one searched? I was dragged out of bed because a roommate made such an accusation in order to try to get out of the lease. Do I have any civil recourse towards the former roommate, the rental company, or the police who dragged me out of bed - with at least one gun drawn - without a warrant?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Rental Office and Police
If the person who gives the police permission to enter is an authorized occupier of the premises, they can come in without a warrant. And, no, I see no civil recourse for you under the circumstances described against any of the persons or entities which you've referenced.