Understanding Constructive Eviction in Virginia
Do you have a tenant you want out of your property? It could be due to non-payment of rent or a violation of the lease agreement, among other valid reasons. Either way, you ought to follow due process when evicting them. Otherwise, you risk legal and financial sanctions.
For instance, you are not supposed to interfere with a tenant’s quiet and peaceful enjoyment of the rental property, even if you want them to leave. If such actions force the tenants to move out, it is considered constructive eviction and is unlawful under Virginia law.
Let’s dive into what constitutes constructive eviction in Virginia and how this law protects tenants.
What is Constructive Eviction?
Constructive eviction in Virginia occurs when the landlord fails to provide a habitable rental property or interferes with the tenant’s quiet enjoyment of the property, forcing them to leave. In this case, the tenant can claim constructive eviction and sue the landlord for damages.
Elements of Constructive Eviction
You do not have to physically evict your tenant from your rental unit for constructive eviction to occur. Any act or omission by the landlord that results in substantial interference in a tenant’s possession and enjoyment of the property could lead to that. If the tenant moves out within a reasonable time of such interference, it may constitute constructive eviction. Such conduct includes:
- Changing the locks to the house
- Cutting off utilities
- Failing to provide essential services or make necessary repairs
- Harassment or intimidation
- Failure to address safety concerns or hazardous conditions on the property
In short, using underhand tactics to force your tenant out is illegal.
What to do if you Suspect Constructive Eviction
Under Virginia constructive eviction laws, the burden of proving constructive eviction rests on the tenant. To do this, the tenant must demonstrate that:
- There was a serious breach of the landlord’s duty to keep the property habitable. The tenant can prove this by showing that the conditions were unsafe or unhealthy.
- The interference was significant enough to make the property uninhabitable. It must be a substantial and continuous disturbance that makes it impossible for the tenant to live on the property comfortably.
- The tenant left the property within a reasonable period of the interference.
- The landlord knew or should have known about the interference but failed to address it promptly.
If you believe that your landlord is engaging in actions that amount to constructive eviction, here’s what you can do:
- Document the evidence: Keep a record of any evidence that shows the property’s conditions and how they have been affected by your landlord’s actions or omissions. This may include photos, videos, or written communication.
- Notify your landlord: Inform them in writing about your issues and give them a reasonable amount of time to address them. Keep copies of all communication for future reference.
- Seek legal assistance: If the situation is serious and your landlord fails to make necessary changes, consider seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney with experience in constructive eviction cases.
The Potential Penalties of an Unlawful Eviction
The law protects tenants against unlawful evictions. Therefore, if you are found to have constructively evicted your tenant, you may have to part with certain damages (like property damage or the emotional suffering endured by the tenant) and court fees, among other penalties.
Protect Yourself From Legal Liability
You cannot risk a brush with the law. If you have any questions or need guidance in the eviction process, it helps to seek the necessary assistance. Knowing how things work when evicting a tenant and what to expect will help you navigate the process more efficiently.