Taking pics of rental inspection / Tenant privacy issues? VA.

[William C.]

Does anyone know the Virginia laws regarding taking pictures of the interior of an occupied rental unit during a routine inspection of the unit? I've given the tenant proper written notice and will be conducting the inspection tomorrow. I have reason to believe that he may possibly have an excessive amount of storage inside the unit, some of which may be blocking Egress through the front entry door.

If I find this to be the case, I want to document it with pics, as well as give him a written violation notice to correct it. I will certainly not be taking any pics of their "personal" items, other than any furniture, or boxes that may be blocking the Entry Doorway.

Does anyone know, definitively, if this would be any type of invasion of their right to privacy under Virginia law. I would think not but need to certain. Appreciate any info anyone  may have to offer. Thanks

[Mike Cumbie]

If you are looking for "definite" then talk to a local lawyer. You should get "an opinon with some case law to back it". If you are looking for some dolt on the internets opinion... Here goes.

If you are taking the pictures to have as evidence in court later. Fine go ahead. Nobody will see them except some judge at an eviction hearing. If you are taking them to post in some book about landlording, internet websites or to have people guess how many boxes for cash prizes..... dont.

Good luck