West Virginia is widely considered a landlord-friendly state due to its fast eviction timeline, lack of rent control, limited regulation, and low property costs. For landlords looking to invest in a state with fewer tenant restrictions and straightforward legal processes, West Virginia offers both accessibility and affordability.
See how West Virginia compares to other landlord-friendly states.
Eviction Process Is Fast and Favorable to Landlords
West Virginia allows landlords to move quickly when tenants don’t pay or violate the lease.
- No mandatory grace period for late rent
- Landlords may serve a 3-day notice to quit for lease violations (W. Va. Code § 55-3A-1)
- Evictions can proceed without requiring the tenant to “cure” the issue first
- Summary eviction filings are permitted for nonpayment and certain violations
- Courts typically enforce lease terms as written, giving landlords strong leverage
Legal Source: West Virginia Judiciary - Magistrate Court Civil Forms
No Statewide Rent Control
- West Virginia law does not cap how much landlords can charge or raise rent between leases
- Municipalities are not permitted to enact rent control ordinances (confirmed by state housing policy frameworks)
- Landlords retain pricing power as market conditions change
Low Property Taxes and Operating Costs
- West Virginia has one of the lowest property tax rates in the U.S. (avg. 0.55% as of 2024)
- Median home prices remain well below the national average, making it ideal for new investors
- Strong potential for steady cash flow in suburban and rural markets
Source: West Virginia State Tax Department
Minimal Licensing and Registration Requirements
- The state does not require landlord licensing at the state level
- Most smaller municipalities do not require registration of rental units
- Larger cities like Charleston and Morgantown may have safety code inspections, but regulations are light compared to other states
- This means fewer compliance burdens and lower operating overhead
Landlord Rights Are Protected in Lease Enforcement
- Lease terms regarding rent, repairs, and use of property are enforceable in court
- No required habitability inspections unless a tenant files a complaint
- If you issue a notice to vacate, you can typically proceed with eviction after the notice period ends
Security Deposit Rules Are Landlord-Favorable
- No statutory cap on the amount of a security deposit
- Landlords must return it within 60 days of lease termination or new tenancy
- Itemized deductions are required, but rules are straightforward (W. Va. Code § 37-6A-1)
Fewer Restrictions on Property Use and Amenities
- West Virginia law places few limits on landlord decisions regarding pools, hot tubs, or upgrades to detached rental units
- You are not subject to the types of landlord restrictions that apply in more tenant-centric states
- Leasing to long-term tenants in single family homes is especially common and lightly regulated
Bottom Line: West Virginia Offers Control and Low Friction for Landlords
If you’re looking to invest in a rental market with fast legal processes, minimal oversight, and reliable tenant demand, West Virginia offers a compelling case. Its legal framework favors property owners while its low tax burden and cost of entry allow for strong returns—even for first-time landlords.
Need to protect your West Virginia rental? Get a quote from Steadily in minutes.
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)