Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia

My old tenant decided she wanted to move out 1 month before the lease expired. She was in a tight position so I agreed to let her break the lease as long as we both signed an agreement that I would keep the security deposit (part of it would cover past due rent money). The new tenants were to move in October 1st of this year, so the lease has October 1, 2009. Because the new tenants wanted to settle in so the kids can start the new school year in the new place, they asked to move in earlier. They only had given me the security deposit and didn't have money to pay rent for this month but offered to paint and make any necessary minor repairs. I said it's okay. The old tenant found out people had moved in and is now asking why did I let people move in when she is practically paying for this month's rent. She claims "these people are living free off of my rent money". What is the law in Virginia regarding this matter?


Asked on 9/11/09, 1:08 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Cary Moseley Law Office of Cary Powell Moseley, PLLC

Why does the tenant care and how did tenant even find out? I thought she moved out and left? None of tenant's business. Also, its not free if you worked out a barter (repairs) for first month. And, again, that is your business, not tenant's. Keep tenants out of your business. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/16/09, 1:33 pm


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