Vermont Renter Rights & Landlord Laws Guide 2025

1. Overview: The Vermont Landscape

Verdict: Low Landlord Friendliness

Vermont is widely considered a Low Landlord Friendliness state. The legal framework heavily favors tenant protections, making it difficult for landlords to evict tenants or manage properties without strict adherence to statutory procedures.

For Landlords: The burden of proof is high. Failure to follow exact legal protocols—for rent collection, notice to enter, or eviction—can result in case dismissal or financial penalties.
For Renters: You enjoy robust privacy and housing stability rights. However, the housing market is competitive; asserting these rights should be done carefully to avoid non-renewal of leases.

2. Security Deposits

Vermont law strictly regulates how landlords handle tenant money.

Limit: Landlords may charge a maximum of one month's rent as a security deposit.
Return Deadline: The deposit, plus any accrued interest (if applicable), must be returned to the tenant within 14 days of lease termination and vacancy.
Itemized Deductions: If the landlord withholds any portion of the deposit for damages, they must provide a written, itemized list of deductions within that 14-day window.
Penalties for Landlords: If a landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized statement within 14 days, they may forfeit the right to withhold any of the deposit and could be liable for damages plus court costs.

Warning for Landlords: Do not use the security deposit as a "slush fund." Keep it in a separate account (if required by local ordinance) and document the property's condition with photos/video immediately upon vacancy.

3. Eviction Rules

Evicting a tenant in Vermont is a strict legal process. "Self-help" evictions (changing locks, removing belongings) are illegal.

The 14-Day Notice (Non-Payment)

Vermont law dictates a specific timeline for non-payment of rent:

Notice Period: 14 Days.
Right to Cure: This notice generally gives the tenant 14 days to pay the full rent owed or move out.
Filing: If the tenant does not pay or vacate after 14 days, the landlord may file for an eviction order (Execution) with the Superior Court.

Other Violations

For lease violations (e.g., unauthorized pets, property damage), the notice period is typically 30 days (or 15 days for week-to-week tenancies).

Warning for Landlords:

Court is Required: You cannot physically remove a tenant without a court order issued by a judge.
Delays are Common: The court system can be slow. Expect the entire process (Notice → Filing → Hearing → Removal) to take several weeks to months, especially during winter months when eviction judgments are sometimes stayed.

4. Landlord Entry

Vermont respects tenant privacy highly. There is no specific statute mandating notice, but case law and the "Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment" imply strict requirements.

Standard Notice: 24 Hours is the generally accepted standard for non-emergency entry.
Consent: Landlords must obtain permission or provide reasonable notice.
Permitted Entries:
- Emergencies (immediate threat to safety/property).
- Showings (if the lease allows for it, usually with notice).
- Repairs/Inspections (with notice).

Warning for Landlords: Entering a unit without proper notice can be grounds for a tenant to sue for "constructive eviction" or harassment. Always document your notice (email/text) before entering.

5. Rent Control

Statewide Status: Vermont does not have statewide rent control.
Local Ordinances: Some municipalities (such as Burlington) have enacted ordinances limiting rent increases or requiring "Good Cause" for non-renewal of leases.
Rent Increases: Generally, for month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide at least 60 days' written notice before implementing a rent increase.

Warning for Landlords: Check your specific municipal code. Raising rent in violation of local ordinances can lead to heavy fines and the inability to collect the increased rent.

6. Special Warning for Landlords

Risk Alert: High Procedural Risk

Because Vermont is a Low Friendliness state, you are at significant risk if you cut corners.

The "No Waiver" Rule: You cannot ask a tenant to waive their rights (e.g., "I waive the 14-day notice period") in the lease agreement. Such clauses are void.
Retaliation is Illegal: If a tenant complains to a health inspector or code enforcement, you cannot evict or threaten to evict them within 6 months of that complaint. The court will view this as retaliation and likely rule against you.
Lease Terms Matter: Vermont defaults to statutory protections if your lease is silent or vague. Ensure your lease is specific about pet policies, maintenance responsibilities, and guest rules to protect your investment.

7. Special Warning for Tenants

Protection Alert: Know Your Rights, But Pay Your Rent

You have strong protections, but housing is scarce. Use your rights wisely.

The 14-Day Window: If you receive a 14-day notice for non-payment, you have a limited window to fix the issue. Paying the full rent (plus any legal fees/late fees specified in the lease) stops the eviction process immediately.
Withholding Rent for Repairs: While you have a right to a habitable home, do not withhold rent without following specific legal procedures (such as placing rent in an escrow account with the court). Simply refusing to pay can lead to eviction for non-payment.
Document Everything: In a "Low Friendliness" state, evidence wins cases. Keep copies of all communications, photos of the move-in condition, and records of rent payments.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws are subject to change. For specific legal issues, please consult a qualified attorney or the Vermont Legal Aid Housing Hotline.