Virginia lawmakers are considering a housing stability measure that would give renters more time to catch up on late payments before landlords can begin moving to terminate leases.

Among the measures already filed is House Bill 15, which would extend the grace period for late rent payments from five to 14 days, delaying when landlords can move to terminate a lease. (RELATED: Economic Indicators Point to Strength as U.S. Enters Its 250th Year)

Supporters argue the current five-day window can be too short for renters facing temporary disruptions such as paycheck timing delays, unexpected medical bills, or short-term job instability. By extending the grace period, advocates say the bill could prevent evictions that stem from brief financial setbacks rather than long-term inability to pay.

The measure is arriving as Democrats take control of both chambers and the incoming governor’s office, creating new momentum for housing bills that were vetoed by outgoing Gov. Glenn Youngkin last year. Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger has signaled support for policies aimed at housing affordability, stability and supply, and bills like HB 15 could become part of her early agenda.

Landlord and property management groups may oppose the change, arguing it increases financial risk for owners—especially smaller landlords who depend on rent payments to cover mortgages and maintenance. Critics could also warn that extending the grace period may encourage chronic late payment behavior and reduce predictability for property operations.

If HB 15 advances, lawmakers will likely debate whether the extended window strikes the right balance between renter stability and landlord rights. The outcome could become a key signal of how far Virginia’s Democratic trifecta plans to go in reshaping landlord-tenant policy during the 2026 session.  (RELATED: Virginia Democrats Enter Session With Big Agenda, Four Amendments, and Budget Uncertainty)