Scams & Consumer Issues in Virginia
Key Virginia Law
Virginia Code Section 59.1-200 (Virginia Consumer Protection Act)
Virginia's Consumer Protection Act (VCPA) prohibits fraudulent acts and practices, false promises, misrepresentation, and deceptive advertising in consumer transactions involving goods and services.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Virginia
Virginia Agencies & Resources
Virginia Attorney General — Consumer Protection Section
Enforces the Virginia Consumer Protection Act and accepts consumer fraud complaints.
Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
Licenses contractors (Class A, B, C) and other regulated professions. Verify contractor licenses here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the contractor licensing system in Virginia?
Virginia uses a tiered system: Class A (unlimited project value), Class B (projects $10,000-$120,000), and Class C (projects up to $10,000). All residential and commercial contractors must hold the appropriate class license from DPOR. Verify at dpor.virginia.gov.
What remedies are available under Virginia's Consumer Protection Act?
Actual damages or $500 (whichever is greater), plus attorney fees. For willful violations, courts may award up to three times actual damages. The AG may seek civil penalties up to $5,000 per willful violation.
What is the statute of limitations for Virginia consumer fraud?
Two years from when you discovered or should have discovered the deceptive act under Va. Code Section 59.1-204.1.
How do I report a consumer scam in Virginia?
File a complaint with the Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section at oag.state.va.us. For contractor fraud, also file a complaint with DPOR at dpor.virginia.gov.
Related Scams & Consumer Issues Scenarios
Can I sue if I was scammed in an online purchase?
Understanding your options when you've been defrauded in an online transaction.
Can I sue a contractor who took money and disappeared?
Understanding your options when dealing with fraudulent or disappearing contractors.
Can I sue for investment or securities fraud?
Legal options for investors who lost money due to fraudulent investment advice or schemes.
Can I sue when VA benefits claims are wrongly denied?
Legal options when veterans receive improper denials of VA benefits or face delays in processing.
Have a Specific Situation in Virginia?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.