How to Negotiate a Rent Increase When Renewing in Vermont

Renewing your lease in Vermont can bring new terms, including a possible rent increase. If you've received notice that your rent will go up, knowing your rights and your options can help you navigate this process confidently. This guide explains how rent increases work, what Vermont law says, and practical tips for negotiating with your landlord to help you stay in your home affordably.

Understanding Rent Increases at Lease Renewal

In Vermont, there are no statewide rent control laws. This means landlords can generally increase rent when your lease is up for renewal. However, they must provide proper written notice, and the increase cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

• Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect, according to 9 V.S.A. § 4460.
• Notice must specify the new rent amount and the date the change will begin.
• The increase can only take effect at the end of your current rental agreement (at renewal, not mid-lease).

Municipalities like Burlington may have additional local rules—always check with your local housing office.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase Notice

• Carefully review the notice for required information (new rent, date, signed by landlord).
• Verify that you received the notice at least 60 days before your lease expires or before the new rental period begins.
• If the notice is incomplete or late, the rent increase may not be valid for the upcoming renewal period.

Tips for Negotiating with Your Landlord

• Research typical rents in your neighborhood using tools provided by the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development.
• Prepare a list of reasons you are a good tenant (on-time payments, maintaining the property, being a long-term renter).
• Politely request a meeting or send a written response negotiating the increase or asking for additional terms (e.g., slower increase, maintenance requests).
• If you need more time or face financial hardship, explain your situation and ask if the landlord will consider a smaller increase or a payment plan.

Relevant Official Forms and Documents

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy or Notice to Change Terms (No Official Form Number)
  When used: This written notice is provided by your landlord to inform you of a rent increase before lease renewal.
  Example: If your lease ends on August 31, you must receive written notice of any rent increase by July 2.
  Read the legal requirements for rent increase notice
• Complaint Form – Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division
  When used: If you believe the rent increase is unlawful (e.g., due to retaliation or insufficient notice), you may use the Civil Complaint form to bring a case.
  Example: A renter receives only 30 days’ notice of a rent increase and wants to challenge it.
  Download the Vermont Civil Complaint form

Vermont’s Tenancy Legislation and Tribunal

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
• Tribunal: Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division handles disputes between landlords and renters.

Action Steps for Vermont Renters

If you want to negotiate a rent increase at lease renewal, follow these practical steps:

• Read the rent increase notice thoroughly and mark important deadlines.
• Gather information on local rental prices for comparison.
• Contact your landlord quickly—in writing—to ask for a meeting or propose your own terms.
• Record all negotiations and keep copies of correspondence.
• If negotiations stall or if laws aren’t followed, consider using the Vermont Superior Court Civil Complaint form to protect your rights.

FAQs on Rent Increases and Lease Renewals in Vermont

1. How much can my landlord increase my rent at renewal in Vermont?
   There is no statewide limit to how much a landlord can increase rent in Vermont, but the increase must not be retaliatory or discriminatory and must follow advance notice rules.
2. What if I did not receive 60 days’ written notice?
   If you don’t get proper notice, you can challenge the increase or continue paying your old rent amount until valid notice is given.
3. Can I refuse a rent increase and stay in my apartment?
   If you refuse the increase but your lease has ended, your landlord can end your tenancy with proper notice. You may try to negotiate before taking this step.
4. Where do I file a complaint about an unfair rent increase?
   You can file a complaint with the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, using their official forms if you believe your rights were violated.
5. Are there any cities in Vermont with different rent increase rules?
   Certain cities, such as Burlington, have local ordinances. Check your city’s official housing office for additional rules.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Rent Increase Negotiation

• Vermont law requires 60 days’ written notice for any rent increase at lease renewal.
• Negotiate with your landlord respectfully and keep all communications in writing.
• If you believe a rent increase is unlawful, you have the right to challenge it through the Vermont court system.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters Resources
• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division
• Vermont Legal Aid – Housing Help
• City of Burlington Fair Housing Office

---

1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Advance Notice of Rent Increase – 9 V.S.A. § 4460
3. Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division – Landlord/Tenant Disputes
4. Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
5. Vermont Legal Aid – Housing Assistance

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations