The law in plain English
Return deadline
Under Va. Code Sections 55.1-1204, 55.1-1206, 55.1-1208, 55.1-1226, 55.1-1234.1, 55.1-1240, 55.1-1243.2, the deposit response usually has to be sent within 45 days of the move-out timeline described by the state rule.
Required notice
Virginia generally requires an itemized statement of deductions and any remaining refund within 45 days after the tenancy ends and possession is delivered.
This dispute type
Once the Virginia deadline passes, the dispute stops being only about the deductions and becomes a deadline-compliance problem too. A landlord may still argue damage existed, but Va. Code §§ 55.1-1204, 55.1-1206, 55.1-1208, 55.1-1226, 55.1-1234.1, 55.1-1240, 55.1-1243.2 sets the clock for returning the balance and explaining any amount withheld.
Penalty leverage
If the withholding was wrongful or in bad faith, the exposure allowed under the statute is: You can recover actual damages plus reasonable attorney's fees