New bill in VA could extend time tenant has to pay back rent

A new bill has been filled ahead of the 2026 Virginia General Assembly Session to increase the amount of time a tenant has to pay back rent before a landlord can file an eviction lawsuit. The bill aims to increase the amount of time a tenant has to pay back rent after receiving written notice from their landlord from 5 days to 14 days. Earlier this year, the Virginia REALTORS’ Association testified against similar bills and said tenants already have the option to pay back rent up to 48 hours before they are actually evicted from their home. Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed those bills.