Landlord-Tenant claim in Virginia: withholding rent refund during Security Deposit adjudication (rental, attorney)

[NOVA Renter]

I recently moved out of a rental home in Virginia. The landlord has claimed that I should pay for an exterminator since he found snake skin shed in a basement utility room. I am contesting this charge with him, and while that is ongoing, he is holding the security deposit.

I understand him holding that deposit, until we resolve the issue. That is laid out in the law, 45 day process and all of that.

HOWEVER, I also paid for a full months rent, then left on the 15th to accommodate new tenants moving in, so I am entitled 1/2 of that months rent refunded.

Until we resolve the $300 exterminator fee that he wants to deduct from the security deposit, he will not refund the overpaid rent. I don't think he can do that, because it is a separate "pot of money" and not his to withhold-I would think. To me, he is wrongfully withholding money to force me into accepting the other fee.

Anyone have amy information on this issue, I'd appreciate hearing it. I know I will need an attorney and on Monday I will find one, but while I have the weekend to think-I was curious if other people had insight/info to share.

Thanks

[gregir]

once the new tenants move in and have paid rent you are due your oney, unless the lease did not specifiy what happens when the lease is broken and the space is then rented out. If there is time left on the lease and he has not returned the money you can move back in. Not practical but...