Renting vs. Owning: Key Tenant and Landlord Laws Every Vermont Resident Must Know

Vermont landlord-tenant laws balance tenant protections with landlord rights under Title 9, Chapter 137 of state statutes. Renters enjoy strong safeguards like habitability requirements and notice periods, while owners must maintain properties and follow eviction procedures. Key rules apply statewide, though local ordinances in places like Burlington may add specifics.​

Tenant Rights

Tenants receive 14 days for security deposit returns after move-out, with itemized deductions required. Landlords must provide 48 hours’ notice before entry (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. only) and complete repairs within 30 days of notice. Domestic violence victims can terminate leases early with proof.​

Landlord Obligations

Landlords ensure safe, habitable units and cannot charge excessive late fees beyond reasonable amounts ($40 max for bounced checks). Rent increases need 60 days’ notice for month-to-month tenancies or 90 days for tenants at will, with no statewide cap. They handle abandoned property by notifying tenants for 60 days before disposal.​

Eviction Process

Evictions require cause like nonpayment (14-day notice), lease violations (7-90 days to cure), or illegal activity. Landlords file court complaints ($295 fee), tenants respond within 21 days, and writs of possession follow rulings with 14 days to vacate. No self-help evictions allowed.​

Key Differences: Renting vs. Owning

SOURCES

[1](https://www.turbotenant.com/rental-lease-agreement/vermont/laws/)
[2](https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/fullchapter/09/137)
[3](https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-vermont)
[4](https://legislature.vermont.gov/committee/detail/2026/400)
[5](https://fastdemocracy.com/bill-search/vt/2025-2026/bills/VTB00010714/)