Portsmouth, VA asked in Criminal Law and Landlord - Tenant for Virginia

Q: I gave 2 roommates a verbal notice of terms for eviction 2 months ago, they broke the terms 2 weeks ago and I kicked

Them out and expressed why as well as providing proof. The terms were no alcohol. We found 20 cans of Mike's and a small bottle of whiskey.

Those terms were given as well as any items in the house will be withheld, with the exception of personal necessities, to take care of a $1000 debt or they can pay the money they owed, which they have not. Today they broke into our house and stole items while I was gone. I called the cops who said I can do nothing. We never had a written lease and they didn't pay rent. What can I do? Virginia code says notice may be verbal if the person in question knows it.

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

A: If the roommates did not pay the rent on time, then you can give them a written 5 day notice to pay or quit. On the 6th day, you can file an unlawful detainer in the General District Court for the county/city in which the property is located. You can seek an order of possession from the Judge.

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