Manassas Landlord Or Tenant Lawyer
Last updated on March 16, 2026
In the current economy, both evictions and tenant complaints are on the rise. And in this market, it’s often in the best interests of both parties to resolve disputes and maintain the tenancy. At Thomas R. Breeden, P.C., we represent property owners or tenants in eviction proceedings and other landlord-tenant disputes.
Based in Manassas, we handle residential and commercial property conflicts in Prince William County, Fairfax County and the surrounding northern Virginia communities. Our attorney, Tom Breeden, brings 30 years of experience in landlord-tenant law. He also has a knack for resolving disputes to the satisfaction of both sides.
What Is The Virginia Residential Landlord And Tenant Act?
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) is the primary set of laws governing rental agreements in our commonwealth. While many states have a patchwork of different rules, Virginia uses the VRLTA to establish a clear, fair framework for how landlords and tenants should interact.
Originally, this act only applied to certain large landlords. However, as of July 1, 2024, the law now covers nearly all residential rental agreements in Virginia. Whether you live in a large apartment complex in Manassas or rent a single-family home in Prince William County, these laws likely protect your rights. It sets forth requirements for everything from security deposits to maintenance standards.
What Rights Do Tenants Have Under The Virginia Residential Landlord And Tenant Act?
If you rent your home, the VRLTA provides you with essential protections to ensure your living situation remains safe and fair. We often help tenants understand that they have more leverage than they might realize.
Your core rights under the VRLTA include:
- The right to a habitable home: Your landlord must keep the property in a fit and habitable condition. This includes providing heat, running water and electricity.
- Security deposit protections: Landlords cannot charge more than two months’ rent for a security deposit. They must also return your deposit within 45 days of you moving out, provided there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Privacy rights: Your landlord cannot simply enter your home whenever they wish. In most cases, they must provide at least 72 hours’ notice before entering for maintenance or inspections.
If you are a tenant and you are struggling with your landlord, we can help. In specific, serious cases, if a landlord ignores critical repairs, you may have legal avenues to address the issue, including withholding rent. However, you should always consult an experienced landlord-tenant lawyer before withholding rent, as doing so incorrectly can lead to eviction. With more than 30 years of experience protecting consumer rights in Virginia, our attorney has the experience to advocate on your behalf and protect your tenant rights.
What Responsibilities Do Landlords Have Under The Virginia Residential Landlord And Tenant Act?
Being a landlord in northern Virginia comes with serious obligations. The VRLTA outlines specific duties you must fulfill to remain in compliance with the law. Staying informed helps you avoid costly litigation and maintains your reputation.
Under the act, your responsibilities include:
- Maintaining the premises: You must follow all building and housing codes that affect health and safety. You are responsible for keeping common areas clean and maintaining all electrical, plumbing, and heating facilities.
- Providing disclosures: You must provide tenants with a written lease and a report on the condition of the dwelling. You also must disclose if there is any visible evidence of mold.
- Following proper eviction procedures: You cannot simply change the locks or turn off utilities to force a tenant out. You must follow the formal legal process, which starts with a proper written notice.
- Managing deposits correctly: You must keep records of all security deposits and provide an itemized list of any deductions when the tenant moves out.
Resolving landlord-tenant disputes can be stressful and complex. The laws for landlords are rigid. However, under Virginia laws, you have the right to protect your investment as a property owner. We can advocate on your behalf and negotiate resolutions with tenants when the need arises.
Representing Landlords In Disputes
When tenants default on their rent or violate other terms of their lease, landlords can take action. However, it is important to follow Virginia laws. We represent landlords in dispute. We can help:
- Initiate eviction proceedings
- Negotiate with renters on past due rent
- Obtain and enforce judgments to collect back rent and damages
Whether you are a commercial or residential landlord, our landlord-tenant attorney can advocate on your behalf and help you resolve your tenant dispute.
Protecting The Rights Of Tenants
If you are otherwise a good tenant, most landlords are willing to work with you if you are behind on rent. We can help even after eviction has commenced. Mr. Breeden can represent commercial tenants or apartment dwellers in any situation:
- Defense against eviction
- Negotiation of back rent (repay over time, partial repayment)
- Defense against collection actions
- Withheld security deposits
- Early termination of your lease
- Forcing landlords to make repairs or ensure safe housing conditions, including toxic mold issues
Thomas R. Breeden, P.C., can also draft and review residential or commercial lease agreements, or renegotiate terms of an existing lease.
Consult A Manassas Landlord-Tenant Attorney Today
Our Manassas landlord-tenant attorney is available by appointment for initial consultations. To schedule an appointment, send us a message through our website. You can also call our Manassas office at 703-659-0188.