Tenant Rights In Virginia

Summary

In Virginia, landlords must provide proper notice to terminate a tenancy, even without a lease. Shutting off utilities to force eviction is illegal. Threatening behavior is also unacceptable. If utilities are threatened to be shut off, contact the utility company to prevent disconnection. Consider reaching out to local authorities or legal aid for assistance if the situation escalates.

Full Conversation

Barbara
Hi Barbara! How can I assist you with your legal issue today?
In Virginia I've been renting a place for 12 years with no lease the landlord sold the property to Ace hardware now they're trying to tell me I have to be out by the end of this week and that they're going to shut my utilities off is that legal
In Virginia, even without a lease, landlords must provide a notice period to terminate a tenancy. Shutting off utilities to force eviction is generally illegal. Have you received any written notice, and if so, how many days’ notice did they provide?
No I have not received any written notice and my original landlord was just here basically threatening me that he was going to have the utility shut off I said to him you don't even own the place you sold it in March he said that new owners called him and asked him to come over here and tell me I have to leave. I tried to explain to him that I have a place to go but I can't move until June 1st that I wasn't trying to be here any longer than I have to and he got really mad I thought he's going to hit me and start screaming at me that I hateful bitching stuff like that is that legal
In North Carolina, landlords cannot shut off utilities to force a tenant to leave, and proper notice must be given to terminate a tenancy. Threatening behavior from a landlord is also not acceptable. Have you considered contacting local authorities or a legal aid organization for assistance?
No I haven't contacted anyone that just happened. Originally I was told that I had till the end of April to leave that was what he said to me verbally March 1st.
Case Rating: *
In North Carolina, landlords are required to provide proper written notice before terminating a tenancy, even if there is no lease. Shutting off utilities to force an eviction is illegal, and threatening behavior is unacceptable. You might consider contacting local authorities or legal aid for assistance. Have you received any written communication from the new owners or landlords?
Again I've been here 12 years I've paid the rent on time every single month since I've lived here now he's over here threatening me and I am prepared to leave by June 1st but I have nowhere else to go in between he's trying to tell me that I have to find some place to go I live on social security disability I don't drive I'm disabled I'm just going to shut my utilities off
Case Rating: *
It seems like a strong case to discuss with a lawyer due to potential illegal eviction tactics and threats. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
I just want to make sure that they can't shut off my electric and my water by the end of the week should I call my utility company and talk to them
Case Rating: *
In North Carolina, landlords cannot legally shut off utilities to force an eviction. You should call your utility company to inform them about the situation and request they not disconnect your services. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
I'm in Virginia not North Carolina
Case Rating: *
Given the situation in Virginia, your landlord's actions appear potentially illegal, and shutting off utilities to force eviction is usually prohibited. Threatening behavior is also concerning. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case? If yes, I will ask a few questions to proceed.
No I'm confident that the laws on my side on this one and if he does try anything illegal then I have recourse against them thank you for your help
It seems like you have a good understanding of your rights. If you feel confident, that's great. Just remember, if the situation escalates or if you need further assistance, reaching out to a local attorney or legal aid can be beneficial. Stay safe and take care!