Mechanicsville, VA asked in Landlord - Tenant for Virginia

Q: After 3 years my landlord is charging me for unpaid utilities and damage fees, is this legal?

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1 Lawyer Answer
F. Paul Maloof
F. Paul Maloof
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Alexandria, VA
  • Licensed in Virginia

A: Generally in Virginia, the duty to pay the utility bills is that of the Tenant and is stated in the Residential Lease. A claim pursuant to a written agreement has a statute of limitations period in Virginia of 5 years. If the unpaid utility bills are 3 years in arrears, the landlord has a right to make a demand for the payment of those bills and to make a claim in court if those bills go unpaid after the demand is made.

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