Must-Have Clauses for Vermont Roommate Agreements

Sharing a rental in Vermont offers flexibility and cost savings, but it can also bring challenges if expectations aren’t set early. A well-crafted roommate agreement is a crucial tool for protecting your rights, responsibilities, and finances. While not required by Vermont law, these agreements offer clarity that can prevent misunderstandings with co-tenants and even safeguard your relationship with your landlord.

Why Roommate Agreements Matter in Vermont

In Vermont, a roommate agreement is a written contract between people who live together in a rented property. Unlike the lease with your landlord—governed by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act—this agreement helps set the ground rules between roommates. Having one can help address issues before they become serious disputes.

Essential Clauses for Vermont Roommate Agreements

A roommate agreement should be tailored to your specific living situation. Here are some key topics to cover:

1. Rent and Utilities

• How much does each roommate pay toward rent?
• Who collects and pays the landlord? (One person, or does each pay separately?)
• How will utilities be divided and paid?
• Due dates for each payment

2. Security Deposits

• How is the deposit divided between roommates?
• What happens if someone moves out early—who gets refunded, and when?

3. House Rules and Responsibilities

• Shared cleaning and maintenance duties
• Policies for overnight guests
• Rules for noise, smoking, or pets
• How household supplies are shared or purchased

4. Conflict Resolution

• How will disagreements be handled?
• Is there a process for mediation if needed?

5. Moving Out

• Required notice before moving out (e.g., 30 days)
• How to find a replacement roommate
• Responsibility for any rent if someone leaves before the lease ends

6. Subletting or Adding New Roommates

• Must all roommates approve a new person?
• Does the landlord need to be notified?
• Ways to handle subletting arrangements legally under Vermont rental law

Roommate Agreement vs. Lease: What’s Legally Binding?

A roommate agreement is not legally enforceable in the same way as your lease agreement governed by Vermont state law. However, it is still a valid contract between the roommates. If serious disputes occur, small claims court may consider the agreement as evidence. For matters between you and your landlord or for housing complaints, contact the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program, which serves as Vermont’s main residential tenancy authority.

Relevant Forms and Official Guidance

While Vermont does not provide a specific government roommate agreement form, you might need some official documents during your rental:

• Security Deposit Disclosure (No Form Number): Required by state law. Landlords must disclose details about your security deposit. Typically provided in your lease, but if you need more info, see the Vermont security deposit guidance.
  Example: Request a statement from your landlord about how your deposit will be divided if roommates move out early.
• Change of Tenant/Subletting Notification (No State Form): If you plan to move out or sublet, written notice to your landlord is required. The process should be outlined in your lease. For tips, see the official guide to subletting in Vermont.
  Example: If you’re leaving before your lease ends, notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible and get their approval before subletting to someone new.

For other legal housing concerns, the main residential authority is the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program.

Key Vermont Laws for Tenants

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 VSA Chapter 137)
• Vermont Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Resources

FAQ: Vermont Roommate Agreements and Shared Rentals

1. Are roommate agreements required by law in Vermont?
   No, but having a written agreement is strongly recommended to prevent disputes between roommates.
2. Is my roommate agreement enforceable in court?
   While not governed by the Vermont landlord-tenant law, your agreement is a contract and can be used as evidence if you end up in small claims court.
3. Can a roommate be removed from a lease without their consent?
   Usually, all lease-holders must agree to changes. Check your lease and consult the landlord. Removing a roommate often requires their written consent and landlord approval.
4. How do I split the security deposit if a roommate leaves early?
   Decide this in your roommate agreement. Vermont law requires the landlord to return the deposit to the person(s) named on the lease.

Conclusion

• Roommate agreements provide clarity, fairness, and security for Vermont tenants living with others.
• Include clear terms about rent, deposits, chores, rules, and moving out.
• For legal matters about the lease itself, refer to the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act or consult state tenant resources.

Taking the time to create a written agreement can help prevent misunderstandings and keep your shared household running smoothly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program - Landlord/Tenant: Guidance, complaint forms, and official tenancy information
• Vermont Law Help: Renters: Free legal advice and support for tenants
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (Official Text)

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – 9 VSA Chapter 137
2. Vermont Attorney General Landlord/Tenant Guidance
3. Vermont Security Deposit Guidance
4. Vermont Guide to Subletting

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