Can a Vermont Landlord Refuse to Renew Your Lease?

Understanding your lease renewal rights as a Vermont tenant is important to avoid surprises. If your lease is ending, you may wonder whether your landlord can legally refuse to renew your lease or what steps you should take if you receive notice. This article explains Vermont’s laws about lease non-renewal, official forms, and where to get help, all in plain language for renters.

Vermont Lease Renewal Laws: Can a Landlord Say No?

Vermont law allows both landlords and tenants the choice not to renew a lease when it expires. In most cases, your landlord isn't required to provide a reason to refuse renewal—unless you have a rent-controlled or subsidized unit (like public housing), or if refusal is for an illegal reason (like discrimination or retaliation).

Notice Requirements for Non-Renewal

If your landlord does not want to renew your lease, Vermont statutes require them to give you written notice before your lease ends. The specific timeframe depends on your rental type:

• Year-to-Year Lease: At least 90 days written notice before lease end.
• Month-to-Month Lease: At least 60 days written notice.
• Week-to-Week Lease: At least 21 days written notice.

These notice periods are mandated by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act ^[1]. If notice isn’t given properly, the lease automatically renews under the same terms.

Illegal Reasons for Non-Renewal

• It’s illegal for landlords to refuse lease renewal for discriminatory reasons (such as race, religion, family status, etc.), under federal and state fair housing laws.
• Landlords cannot retaliate—such as by refusing renewal because you reported code violations or exercised your legal rights.

If you suspect discrimination or retaliation, you may file a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission.

Required Forms and Practical Examples

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy Form: No official state-standardized form exists, but written notice is required.
  • When to Use: Your landlord must deliver written notice within the required time period before the lease ends—by mail or in person.
  • Example: If your lease ends June 30 and is year-to-year, your landlord must give you notice by April 1.
  • View the law: Notice requirements for ending a lease

Local municipalities may have additional forms or requirements, so check with your town clerk or rental office.

What Happens After Lease Non-Renewal?

• You must move out by the stated end date unless you accept a new lease or reach another agreement with your landlord.
• If you do not leave, your landlord must follow formal eviction procedures—never lock you out or remove belongings without court order.
• Eviction cases are handled by the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division ^[2].

Relevant Tribunals and Legislation

• Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes: Vermont Superior Court Civil Division
• Governing Law: Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)

This legislation covers notice, lease termination, and renter protections in Vermont.

FAQ: Vermont Lease Renewals and Non-Renewal

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease without giving a reason?
   Yes, unless the refusal is for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. Vermont does not require landlords to provide a reason in most cases.
2. How much notice must my landlord give me if they do not want to renew my lease?
   This depends on your lease term. For year-to-year leases, 90 days; for month-to-month, 60 days; for week-to-week, 21 days.
3. What should I do if I suspect the refusal is discriminatory?
   Contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission to file a complaint.
4. Can a landlord increase rent to force me out instead of giving notice?
   Landlords must follow state rules and provide proper notice for rent increases, but sharp increases without justification could be challenged as a form of retaliation.
5. What if my landlord gives improper notice?
   If the required notice isn’t given, your lease typically continues under the same terms. Seek legal advice or contact the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division for guidance.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Landlords can generally refuse to renew leases but must give the correct notice in writing.
• Non-renewal based on discrimination or retaliation is illegal—and you have the right to challenge it.
• Always keep copies of any notices and respond promptly if your rights are in question.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division — handles eviction and tenancy-related cases
• Vermont Office of Rental Housing Stabilization — housing assistance
• Vermont Human Rights Commission — file discrimination or retaliation complaints
• Vermont Legal Aid (Housing Help)
• Contact your local town offices or clerk for community-specific forms and resources

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1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Section 446 - Termination of Tenancy and Notice
2. Vermont Superior Court Civil Division – Rental Property Cases

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