What can I do if my landlord charges me for utilities that the lease says are included?

Your lease is a binding contract. If it states that utilities are included in your rent, your landlord cannot charge you extra. Show your lease to the landlord and request written clarification. If they won’t resolve it, you can file a complaint through the Department of Public Service.

How can I tell if my utility bill is overcharged due to a faulty meter?

If your bill is much higher than usual, ask your utility provider for a meter inspection. Record any evidence of visible meter damage and include this in any complaint.

Who helps Vermont renters resolve utility bill disputes?

The Vermont Department of Public Service and the Vermont Public Utility Commission oversee utility billing disputes and provide investigation and dispute resolution services for renters.

Can the landlord disconnect my utilities over a bill dispute?

In Vermont, landlords cannot shut off essential utilities in retaliation or as a way to collect disputed charges. Such action may violate your tenant rights under state law.

Is there a deadline for filing a utility complaint in Vermont?

There is no strict legal deadline, but it is recommended to file your complaint as soon as possible after discovering the overcharge to ensure resolution before additional charges accrue.

Challenging an Overinflated Utility Bill as a Vermont Renter

Utilities, Services & Billing Vermont published June 21, 2025

If you’re renting in Vermont and have received an unexpectedly high utility bill, you’re not alone. Utility overcharges can happen for reasons such as billing errors, faulty meters, or confusion around what utilities are your responsibility as a renter. Understanding your rights and how to dispute these charges can help you avoid unnecessary costs and resolve issues efficiently. This guide explains what steps Vermont renters can take to address an overinflated utility bill and which official resources are available to help.

Your Utility Rights and Vermont Laws

Under Vermont law, renters are protected against unfair utility billing practices. Utility services in rentals are governed both by your lease agreement and state regulations, such as the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act. Utilities include services like electricity, water, natural gas, and, in some cases, heat. Your landlord must clearly state in your lease who is responsible for paying each utility.

If the utilities are included in your rent, the landlord cannot later demand extra payment for those services.
If you pay utilities directly, you have the right to accurate billing from utilities regulated by the Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC).

Common Reasons Utility Bills Are Overinflated

Understanding what may cause a spike or error in your bill helps focus your dispute. Common causes include:

Billing meter errors or malfunctions
Incorrect meter readings
New appliances that use more energy than you expected
Leaks (especially water bills)
Landlord charges for services that should be included in rent

Steps to Challenge an Overinflated Utility Bill in Vermont

Follow these steps to protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution:

Check your lease: Confirm which utilities you are legally responsible to pay. Look for any language about included services.
Request an itemized bill: Ask your landlord or the utility company for a detailed breakdown of the charges and meter readings.
Document everything: Keep copies of bills, written communications, and photos if you find leaks or damaged meters.
Compare past usage: Look at previous bills to identify inconsistencies.
Contact your landlord: Politely notify them in writing about the suspected overcharge, and offer evidence if possible.
Contact the utility company: For directly billed services, dispute the bill through the company's customer service and request an investigation.
Escalate your complaint if unresolved: File a formal complaint with the Vermont Department of Public Service using their Utility Complaint Form. For regulated utilities, the Vermont Public Utility Commission is the overseeing body.

Key Official Forms and How to Use Them

Vermont Department of Public Service: Utility Complaint Form
When to use: If communication with your landlord or utility provider does not resolve the dispute, Vermont renters can file this form to open an official investigation.
How to use: Complete the online or printable form, describing the dispute, attaching bills, and providing your contact information. Submit by mail, in person, or online.
Access the Utility Complaint Form here.

Tip: Always put your complaints in writing and ask for written responses. Keeping a paper trail strengthens your case.

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

Once you file a complaint with the Department of Public Service, an investigator reviews your case. You may be contacted for additional information. The Department will work to mediate a resolution with the utility or your landlord. If the dispute cannot be resolved informally, you may be referred to the Vermont Public Utility Commission for a formal process.

Useful Legal Context for Vermont Renters

Vermont’s main law protecting renters is the Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137). This law covers your rights around utilities, fair billing, and what your landlord must provide in your lease agreement. If the landlord is violating your rights, the Department of Public Service and the PUC are equipped to assist you. For detailed rules, see their consumer guidance.

FAQ: Vermont Renters and Utility Bill Disputes

What can I do if my landlord charges me for utilities that the lease says are included?
Your lease is a binding contract. If it states that utilities are included in your rent, your landlord cannot charge you extra. Show your lease to the landlord and request written clarification. If they won’t resolve it, you can file a complaint through the Department of Public Service.
How can I tell if my utility bill is overcharged due to a faulty meter?
If your bill is much higher than usual, ask your utility provider for a meter inspection. Record any evidence of visible meter damage and include this in any complaint.
Who helps Vermont renters resolve utility bill disputes?
The Vermont Department of Public Service and the Vermont Public Utility Commission oversee utility billing disputes and provide investigation and dispute resolution services for renters.
Can the landlord disconnect my utilities over a bill dispute?
In Vermont, landlords cannot shut off essential utilities in retaliation or as a way to collect disputed charges. Such action may violate your tenant rights under state law.
Is there a deadline for filing a utility complaint in Vermont?
There is no strict legal deadline, but it is recommended to file your complaint as soon as possible after discovering the overcharge to ensure resolution before additional charges accrue.

Key Takeaways

Vermont renters are protected by state law against unfair or inaccurate utility billing.
Check your lease, gather evidence, and contact your landlord and utility provider first.
If issues remain, use the Vermont Utility Complaint Form to initiate a formal investigation.

Persistent record-keeping and prompt action can help renters resolve overbilling quickly and fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Vermont Department of Public Service, Consumer Affairs: Support for utility complaints and consumer guidance.
Vermont Public Utility Commission: Official board overseeing utility regulations and disputes.
Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: Full legal protections for Vermont renters.
Vermont Legal Aid: Rental Help: Free or low-cost legal advice for renters.