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The Consumer Affairs Branch provides mediation and arbitration for tenant-landlord complaints.
File a Complaint
If you have a tenant landlord problem, you can file a complaint on-line, download a complaint form (19 KB .pdf file), or contact the Consumer Affairs Branch at 703-222-8435, TTY 711 to have a complaint form sent to you.
Mediation
When you file a tenant-landlord complaint, an investigator will be assigned to your case. The investigator will mediate the complaint between the tenant and landlord, and try to negotiate a resolution that is satisfactory to both parties. If a tenant-landlord law has been broken, the Consumer Affairs Branch works with the party to come into compliance with the law
Arbitration
If mediation is not successful, a voluntary but legally-binding arbitration process is available as a last resort before proceeding to court actions. The investigator assigned to mediate your complaint will advise you if arbitration is an option. Laws
The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
(VRLTA), establishes the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords and applies to ALL apartment rental agreements. In Fairfax County, the VRLTA also applies to single-family, town-house and condominium unit rental agreements, but ONLY if the landlord owns and rents more than four such units, or if the lease agreement specifically references the VRLTA.
Chapter 12 The Fairfax County Code applies to rental agreements for dwelling units located within Fairfax County. Chapter 12 establishes policies that govern relationships between tenants and landlords, and outlines the duties of Consumer Affairs and the Tenant Landlord Commission.
Publications
The Handbook for Tenants and Landlords (249Kb .pdf file).
This common English explanation of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA), tenant-landlord laws, standard practices, and principles, contains useful advice for tenants and landlords.
The Tenant-Landlord Arbitration pamphlet (86Kb .pdf file) describes the voluntary but binding process for resolving tenant-landlord disputes.
The Tenant Resource Sheet (205KB .pdf file) provides information for tenants so they know which county agency to call if they need assistance with repair or maintenance problems in their rental dwelling.
Related Organizations
Tenant-Landlord Commission, its members, purpose, and meeting schedule.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
about Tenant-Landlord Issues
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