Landlord Repair Deadlines and Renter Action in Vermont

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Vermont, understanding your rights around repairs and maintenance can help ensure your living space stays safe and comfortable. State law requires landlords to keep rental properties in good condition, but how long can a landlord take to fix issues? This guide explains Vermont’s repair timelines, your rights as a renter, and what to do if repairs are delayed.

Vermont Landlord Responsibilities for Repairs

Under Vermont law, landlords must provide housing that meets the state’s warranty of habitability. This means apartments and rental homes must be safe, clean, and fit to live in. Common landlord repair responsibilities include:

• Repairing plumbing, heating, and electrical systems
• Maintaining roofs, windows, and doors to keep out weather and pests
• Providing safe water, heat, and required utilities
• Fixing hazardous conditions such as broken stairs or mold

How Long Does a Vermont Landlord Have to Fix Problems?

Vermont law sets out clear expectations but does not name strict repair deadlines in all cases. The timeline for repairs depends on the type and severity of the problem:

• Emergency repairs (such as no heat in winter, no water, or major plumbing leaks): Landlords must make repairs as soon as possible, usually within 24-48 hours.
• Serious habitability issues (like broken locks, unsafe wiring, or significant leaks): Landlords should fix these within a reasonable time, often considered 3 to 14 days.
• Minor repairs or cosmetic issues: These should be addressed in a reasonable period, which may vary but is typically within 30 days.

For most issues, Vermont renters must first notify their landlord in writing and give them a reasonable time to respond and make repairs. If a landlord fails to act, you may have additional legal options.

What If Repairs Aren’t Made in Time?

If your landlord does not fix serious problems in a reasonable time after written notice, you have several options under Vermont law:

• Report the problem to local code enforcement or the Vermont Department of Health.
• In certain cases, you may be able to withhold rent or pay for repairs and deduct the cost, but only after following legal steps.
• File a claim in the Vermont Superior Court, which oversees landlord-tenant disputes.

Official Forms for Vermont Renters

• Repair Request or Notice of Habitability Violation (no official state form):
  Use a written letter or email to your landlord. Clearly describe the problem, the impact on living conditions, and a reasonable timeline for repairs.
  Example: "On March 1, I reported a major leak under the kitchen sink. Please repair within 5 days to avoid further damage."
• Complaint to Local Health Officer or Code Enforcement:
  When a landlord fails to address serious health or safety problems, you can contact your Local Health Office. There is no standard state form, but you may need to complete a local complaint form.

Relevant Legislation and Tribunal

• Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 (Residential Rental Agreements) governs most landlord-tenant repair responsibilities.
• The Vermont Superior Court is responsible for housing and landlord-tenant disputes.

Taking Action: Steps If Repairs Aren’t Made

If your landlord fails to fix an issue after reasonable notice, follow these steps:

• Document the issue with photos, dates, and details.
• Keep copies of all communications with your landlord.
• Notify your local health or code enforcement office for serious issues.
• Consider seeking legal advice if you need to withhold rent, pay for repairs, or take legal action.

Each step helps protect your rights and ensures you have proof if the issue escalates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I notify my landlord of a repair problem in Vermont?
   Renters should provide written notice (letter, email, or text) describing the issue and request a repair within a reasonable timeframe.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn't fix repairs?
   In Vermont, you may have the right to withhold rent for serious habitability issues, but only after giving written notice and following the procedures in Vermont's law. Consider seeking legal advice before withholding rent.
3. What qualifies as an "emergency repair"?
   Emergencies are problems that threaten health or safety, such as no heat in winter, loss of water, or electrical hazards. These should be repaired within 24–48 hours.
4. Who do I contact if my landlord will not fix a dangerous issue?
   Contact your local health officer or code enforcement. Find your nearest office via the Vermont Department of Health.
5. Is there a government form to submit a repair complaint?
   There is no official statewide Vermont repair request form, but written notice to the landlord and contacting the local health officer are recommended steps.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont landlords must maintain safe, habitable rentals according to the state’s warranty of habitability.
• Emergency and serious repairs require prompt action—within days, not weeks.
• Document everything and notify your landlord in writing to protect your rights.

Renters can report unresolved issues to local health officials or seek help from the courts if necessary.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court – Landlord-Tenant Information
• Vermont Statutes Annotated — Chapter 137: Residential Rental Agreements
• Vermont Department of Health – Local Health Offices
• Vermont Legal Help – Repairs and Habitability Guide

---

1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 (Residential Rental Agreements)
2. Vermont Superior Court
3. Vermont Department of Health: Find Local Health Officers

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