Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia

i have tenant in the city of alexandria, va that has a lease until march 1, 2012...8-4-10 she just gave her rent for august and notice to leave september..i explained she had a lease until march and in order to leave she had to pay rent for sept, oct, nov, dec, jan, feb...or find another renter to take over her lease..the tenant said no she was leaving that she gave thirty day notice..do i have a right to lock the doors and keep her equipment..until she pays..thanks


Asked on 8/04/11, 8:21 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

No, your lawful remedy under the facts described is an action in your local general district court against this tenant to collect rents that have become due under this lease and that continue to remain unpaid and not to engage in the kind of self-help described that could engender

personal liability on your part.

You should bear in mind that through the month of August, this tenant will apparently still be in full compliance with the terms of the lease irrespective of what she has told you that she may do on September 1.

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Answered on 8/04/11, 8:31 pm


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