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
In Virginia, renters usually challenge deposit deductions for scuffs, faded paint, flattened carpet, and similar aging because those issues look more like ordinary use than repairable damage. The statute still controls when the refund had to be sent and how deductions had to be explained.
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