When must a landlord in Virginia provide a copy of the rental agreement to the tenant?

In Virginia, the law requires that landlords provide a copy of the rental agreement to the tenant within one month of the agreement's effective date. This timeframe ensures that the tenant has sufficient time to review the terms of the lease, including any obligations or rights, once they have entered into the lease arrangement. Providing a copy of the agreement is crucial as it formalizes the understanding between the landlord and tenant, making both parties accountable for the terms outlined in the lease.

This requirement also serves to protect the tenant by ensuring they have documentation of their rights and responsibilities, which can help prevent misunderstandings or disputes in the future. A copy is necessary for the tenant to refer to and verify their agreeements about rental payments, maintenance responsibilities, and other important facets of their tenancy.