How to Fairly Split Rent in Shared Vermont Housing

Living with roommates in Vermont can be rewarding and cost-effective, but deciding how to split rent often leads to stress or disagreements. With clear communication and a basic understanding of your legal rights under Vermont law, you can avoid common pitfalls and keep shared housing harmonious. Below, you'll find the most practical rent splitting tricks for Vermont renters, along with official guidance and resources.

Understanding Your Lease and Roommate Agreements

The first step in a successful roommate situation is knowing your obligations under both your lease and Vermont law. Most leases in Vermont require all tenants (roommates) to be "jointly and severally liable" for the full rent, meaning if one roommate doesn't pay, everyone else is responsible for their share.^[1]

Tips for Creating a Roommate Agreement

• List each roommate’s share of rent and utility responsibilities.
• Include payment deadlines and methods (e.g., Venmo, one roommate pays landlord, etc.).
• Specify what happens if someone is late or needs to leave early.
• Both tenants and subtenants should sign and keep a copy of the agreement for reference.

While not legally required, a written roommate agreement helps prevent disputes and is useful evidence if issues arise.

Popular Methods to Split Rent Fairly

Not all rooms or spaces are equal, so an even split may not always feel fair. Here are some ways Vermont roommates commonly approach rent division:

• Equal Split: Divide total rent by the number of roommates. Simple, but may be unfair if room sizes or amenities differ.
• Proportional to Room Size: Assign values based on room sizes, private bathrooms, or closet space using free online calculators or measurements.
• Income-Based Split: Each roommate pays a share based on their ability to pay or income (less common).
• Amenities-Based Split: Adjust for rooms with extra features (private bath, views) or shared obligations.

What to Do if a Roommate Moves Out or Stops Paying

If a roommate moves out early or doesn't pay, all roommates may still be held responsible for the full rent. This "joint liability" is standard unless the lease specifies otherwise. Vermont law requires that the primary tenant or landlord must follow proper procedures if a subtenant or roommate needs to be removed or replaced.^[2]

When Is Subletting Allowed?

• Check your lease terms—some landlords allow subletting with written permission; others may prohibit it.
• If allowed, use Vermont’s recommended sublet agreement templates to clarify the arrangement.

Relevant Vermont Forms and Processes

While Vermont does not require a specific government roommate agreement form, you may encounter the following if issues arise:

• No Official State Roommate Form: Use a sample agreement from the Vermont Legal Help – Legal Forms page for guidance.
• Rental Application (No Number): Used when applying for a new shared tenancy.
  Example: When adding a new tenant to a lease, each applicant may fill out a Vermont Rental Application for landlord review.
• Vermont Small Claims Complaint (Form 800-00010): If a roommate owes you money for unpaid rent or damages and refuses to pay, you can file a Small Claims Complaint with the Vermont Judiciary.
  Example: You covered a missing roommate’s portion of rent. If not repaid, you may file this form to seek recovery.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Disputes?

In Vermont, residential tenancy disputes are handled by the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division. For rent disputes between tenants (roommates), claims are often made in Small Claims Court, while more complex tenancy issues may be addressed in the Civil Division.

Vermont Rental Law Basics

All Vermont renters are protected by the state’s Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. Chapter 137. This law covers security deposit returns, notice periods, and tenant rights in shared housing situations.^[3]

1. How can we fairly split rent if my room is smaller?
   Many roommates assign lower rent to the smaller room, using measurements or agreed percentages. Discuss as a group and put any arrangement in writing to avoid disputes.
2. Is a written roommate agreement required in Vermont?
   No, but it’s strongly recommended. A written agreement can clarify expectations and make it easier to resolve differences later.
3. What should I do if a roommate refuses to pay their share?
   If a roommate does not pay, you may need to cover their portion to avoid risking eviction for all tenants. You can later pursue repayment through Small Claims Court if necessary.
4. Can my landlord evict all of us if one roommate doesn’t pay?
   Yes. In Vermont, leases often make all tenants responsible for the full rent, meaning nonpayment by one impacts everyone. Stay in communication with your landlord and document all payments.
5. Do I need the landlord’s permission to sublet in Vermont?
   Often, yes. Always check your lease—some require landlord approval or written notice before subletting, while others forbid it completely.

Key Takeaways for Renting with Roommates in Vermont

• Fair rent splitting starts with clear communication and a written agreement.
• All tenants are usually responsible for the entire rent unless the lease states otherwise.
• Use official Vermont court forms and procedures if money disputes arise with roommates.

Review your lease and Vermont rental laws regularly, and reach out for help if any rental or roommate problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Vermont Renters

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – The main source of tenant law in Vermont.
• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division – Handles rental disputes and small claims between roommates.
• Vermont Legal Help: Housing – Free legal info and forms for renters.
• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development – Information on housing programs and tenant rights.
• For personalized guidance, call Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047 or visit your local courthouse.

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1. See Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. § 4455 regarding tenant responsibilities and liability: Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act
2. Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division, information on handling small claims and tenant disputes: Vermont Superior Court Civil Division
3. Text of the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act can be found at: 9 V.S.A. Chapter 137

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