Virginia § 8.01-491 - Officer may break open dwelling house and levy on property in personal possession of debtor
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 8.01-491 — Officer may break open dwelling house and levy on property in personal possession of debtor, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8.01-491. Officer may break open dwelling house and levy on property in personal possession of debtor
An officer into whose hands an execution is placed to be levied, may, if need be, break open the outer doors of a dwelling house in the daytime, after having first demanded admittance of the occupant, in order to make a levy, and may also levy on property in the personal possession of the debtor if the same be open to observation.
Code 1950, § 8-422; 1977, c. 617.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 8.01-491
What does Code of Virginia § 8.01-491 cover?
Section 8.01-491 ("Officer may break open dwelling house and levy on property in personal possession of debtor") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 8.01-491?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 8.01-491" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 8.01-491 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.