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Tenant Rights in Vermont

A comprehensive guide to your rights as a renter in Vermont. Covers security deposits, eviction procedures, rent control, repair obligations, and when to get legal help.

Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Security deposit max: No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount..
  • Return deadline: 14 days after the tenancy ends..
  • Rent control: Local only.
  • Repair and deduct: Allowed.
No statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount. Security deposit maximum
14 days after the tenancy ends. Deposit return deadline
No Statewide rent control
Required Judicial eviction

Security Deposits

  • Maximum amountNo statutory limit. Landlords may charge any amount.
  • Return deadline14 days after the tenancy ends.

Landlord may deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other lawful charges. Must provide an itemized statement within 14 days.

Eviction Process

  • Notice requirements14-day notice for nonpayment of rent. 30-day notice for lease violations or termination of tenancy. 14-day notice for criminal activity or violations creating health/safety hazards.
  • Judicial eviction requiredYes
  • Estimated timeline4 to 8 weeks for uncontested cases. Vermont's eviction process includes mandatory mediation in some courts.

Rent Control

Vermont does not have statewide rent control. However, Burlington has a rent stabilization ordinance. The state does not preempt local rent control.

Repair and Habitability

  • Repair and deductAllowed
  • Rent withholdingAllowed
  • Retaliation protectionYes

Lease Termination

  • Month-to-month notice60 days' written notice by the landlord; 1 full rental period by the tenant.

Tenant may be liable for remaining rent. Landlord must make reasonable efforts to re-rent. Military members may terminate under the SCRA.

Key Statutes

  • Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: 9 V.S.A. §§ 4451–4469a
  • Security Deposits: 9 V.S.A. § 4461
  • Landlord Obligations (Habitability): 9 V.S.A. § 4457
  • Retaliation: 9 V.S.A. § 4465
  • Eviction Procedures: 9 V.S.A. § 4467; 12 V.S.A. § 4851 et seq.

When to Get Legal Help

  • You're facing eviction, especially with short notice
  • Your landlord is withholding a large security deposit
  • You believe you're being discriminated against
  • Your unit has serious habitability issues the landlord refuses to fix

Find free legal aid in Vermont

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there a security deposit limit in Vermont?

    No. Vermont has no statutory cap on security deposits. The deposit must be returned within 14 days after the tenancy ends, with an itemized statement of deductions.

  • Can I withhold rent for repairs in Vermont?

    Yes. Vermont tenants can withhold rent or use the repair-and-deduct remedy if the landlord fails to maintain the premises in habitable condition after proper notice.

  • Does Vermont have rent control?

    Vermont does not have statewide rent control, but Burlington has adopted a local rent stabilization ordinance. The state does not preempt local rent regulation.

  • How much notice does a landlord have to give to terminate a tenancy in Vermont?

    A landlord must give 60 days' written notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy (longer than most states). A 14-day notice is required for nonpayment of rent.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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