Tag: Renter Safety Bill

Virginia Enacts a Renter Safety Bill Mirroring Miya's Law May 22, 2023 Virginia has enacted a new law that mirrors Miya's Law, which Florida signed into law last year. As such, this law increases background check requirements for employees of apartment complexes. It also made changes to increase tenant safety. Virginia Delegate Candi Mundon King introduced the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act as HB 2082 last year. King explained her inspiration from the tragic case of the 19-year-old Florida college student, Miya Marcano. As such, King looked into the apartment complexes in Virginia and discovered nothing required these complexes to run background checks or track the whereabouts of master keys. In Miya Marcano's case, the student went missing from her apartment, and then found dead a week later. The suit accused the complex's maintenance worker of her disappearance and death. According to deputies, the worker used a master key to enter her apartment the day she disappeared. In response, Florida passed Miya's Law, which requires landlords to perform background checks, limit access to master keys, and provide tenants with at least 24 hours notice before a worker can enter their apartment. Now, 700 miles and several states away, a new version of Miya's Law has appeared in another state. The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act introduces similar requirements. This Act applies to landlords with more than 200 rental dwelling units attached to the same real estate property. Under the Act, landlords must require certain applicants to undergo a pre-employment criminal history check. This requirement specifies applicants who will have access to keys, which the Act defined as physical or electronic mechanisms used to gain access to a rental dwelling unit. This requirement will allow landlords to identify potential red flags before making a hiring decision. Furthermore, the Act requires landlords to establish "ritten policies and procedures regarding the (i) storage, issuance and return, and security of; (ii) access to; and (iii) if applicable, usage and deactivation of rental dwelling unit keys and electronic key codes." These regulations will not apply to financial institutions or real estate licensees covered under Title 54.1 Chapter 21 § 54.1-2100. Virginia landlords should take the time to determine whether the law covers them in the new law. As such, they will find it crucial and helpful to work with an experienced screening provider. The right partner will provide accurate background checks, ensuring companies comply with all state and federal screening requirements. Background checks are made easy with Pre-employ. Ask any questions you may have and learn more by contacting a sales rep today. Source

Tag: Renter Safety Bill

Virginia Enacts a Renter Safety Bill Mirroring Miya’s Law

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