Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act; rental payment methods, prohibited fees.

This legislation updates the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act to protect renters from predatory payment practices. It mandates that landlords must offer at least one payment method that does not charge an additional fee, such as a portal service charge, to ensure tenants are not penalized simply for paying their rent. Furthermore, the bill prohibits landlords from requiring rent payments exclusively through electronic means if the tenant prefers an alternative. By restricting these common surcharge practices, the bill aims to reduce the overall financial burden on Arlington residents who struggle with rising housing costs. These changes ensure that renters retain more control over their payment options, providing greater transparency and fairness in the landlord-tenant relationship across the Commonwealth.