Key Lease Addendums Vermont Renters Should Review

If you’re renting in Vermont, understanding your lease—and any added documents called lease addendums—is essential. These addendums can change your rights or responsibilities, sometimes in ways you might not expect. Vermont law offers strong protections for tenants, but it’s important to review every document before you sign.

What Are Lease Addendums?

A lease addendum is an extra document attached to your lease agreement. It can modify, add, or clarify rules around how you live in your rental. Addendums are legally binding, just like your lease. In Vermont, both landlords and tenants must agree in writing to addendums for them to take effect. If something isn’t allowed under Vermont’s landlord-tenant laws, it can’t be enforced, even if it’s in an addendum.

Common Lease Addendums in Vermont and What to Watch For

Some addendums are standard and ensure clarity, while others may limit your rights if you aren’t careful. Here are some you’ll likely encounter:

• Pet Addendums: These specify if pets are allowed, any restrictions (such as breed or size), deposits, or additional pet rent.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Federal law requires this if the rental property was built before 1978. It should include the official EPA disclosure form and information booklet. Learn more and download the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form from the EPA.
• Maintenance and Repair Addendums: These spell out who is responsible for upkeep, like lawn care, snow removal, or minor repairs. Vermont law sets minimum standards, but landlords sometimes try to shift costs to tenants—make sure these addendums don’t conflict with Vermont’s landlord-tenant statutes.
• Utility Addendums: Outlines who pays for heat, water, electricity, trash, and similar services. In Vermont, landlords must specify all utilities and charges in writing.
• No Smoking or No Cannabis Addendums: Clarifies whether smoking (including cannabis) is allowed and any penalties for violations.
• Early Termination/Lease Break Fees: States if penalties or extra fees apply if you end your lease early. Vermont law limits unreasonable penalties.
• Renters Insurance Requirement: Details if you must have insurance and the minimum coverage required.

Vermont-Specific Forms and Requirements

Vermont does not require a state-standard lease addendum form, but certain disclosures and notices are required:

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (required for pre-1978 housing): This is a federal requirement. Landlords must provide the EPA booklet, "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home" and have you sign the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form.
• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form not standardized, but must be in writing): Used by landlords/tenants to end a tenancy under the rules in Vermont law. An example and instruction can be found on the Vermont Judiciary website (Tenancy Termination Sample Notice).
• Move-in/Move-out Checklist (not required, but highly recommended): Helps document the condition of the unit to avoid disputes over security deposits. A sample form is available on the Vermont Attorney General’s Housing Guidance.

Who Oversees Lease and Tenancy Issues in Vermont?

The main agency for rental housing disputes in Vermont is the Vermont Judiciary, which handles all landlord-tenant cases, including lease disagreements and eviction actions, in Superior Court (Civil Division). For health and safety complaints, contact your local town or city health officer. See the Vermont Department of Health – Renters Health page for resources.

What Does Vermont Tenancy Legislation Say About Addendums?

Vermont’s key residential tenancy laws are found in Title 9, Chapter 137 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated (Landlord and Tenant). These laws set minimum standards for rental units, deposits, notice for rent increases, limitations on late fees, and much more. Addendums can’t override these basic rights.

Action Steps: How to Respond to Lease Addendums

• Always read every addendum carefully, and ask for clarification if needed before signing.
• If you disagree or spot an unlawful term, discuss options with your landlord or seek legal guidance.
• Keep copies of all signed documents, notices, and forms.
• If you believe your rights are violated, you may take your case to the Vermont Judiciary or contact the Vermont Attorney General's Consumer Assistance Program.

FAQ: Vermont Lease Addendums

1. Can my landlord add a new addendum after I have already signed my lease in Vermont?
   Generally, any new addendum requires your consent. Unless you agree in writing, the landlord cannot impose new terms during a fixed-term lease.
2. Are there any addendums that Vermont law requires for all rentals?
   The lead-based paint disclosure is required for rentals built before 1978. Otherwise, state law does not require specific addendums, but all property condition promises must comply with legal standards.
3. What should I do if I disagree with an addendum’s terms?
   Do not sign the addendum. Discuss changes with your landlord, or seek support from the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program or a tenant advocacy group.
4. Can lease addendums override my basic tenant rights in Vermont?
   No. Any addendum that conflicts with Vermont law is not valid, even if you sign it.
5. How do I check if an addendum is legal under Vermont law?
   Review the addendum against Vermont’s Residential Rental Statutes, or contact a local legal aid organization for help.

Conclusion: What Vermont Renters Should Remember

• Lease addendums must comply with Vermont landlord-tenant laws.
• Some addendums are required by law, while others can be negotiated or refused.
• Always keep written records and seek help if you feel pressured or unsure.

Being aware of common addendums and your rights can prevent misunderstandings and protect your interests throughout your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Judiciary: For filing rental housing cases and accessing official tenant-landlord forms.
• Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program: Guidance on landlord-tenant rights and complaint procedures.
• Vermont Department of Health – Renters Health: Help with safety or habitability concerns.
• Vermont Legal Aid: Renting Section: Free support for tenants facing housing issues.

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1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 – Landlord and Tenant
2. EPA Lead-Based Paint Disclosure page
3. Vermont Judiciary – Landlord Tenant Information
4. Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program
5. Vermont Department of Health – Renters Health

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