Starting July 1, 2019, landlords must offer written leases. If the landlord does not do that, the law sets out a specific lease that will apply.Learn to navigate the process smoothly as a landlord or tenant. You should fill out the Virginia apartment lease once you are ready to sign a lease contract. Virginia law requires that the terms of rent payment and schedules be specified in the lease agreement. A landlord must offer a written lease. If the landlord does not do that, the law sets out a specific lease that will apply. What Constitutes a Rental Agreement? 1. Gather all necessary personal and rental information. Virginia has certain guidelines for landlords surrounding health and safety in the rental unit.