Vermont Renters: Filing Effective Repair Requests

When you’re renting in Vermont, a safe and livable home isn’t just a hope—it’s a protected right. Vermont law requires landlords to keep your apartment or house in good repair, with working heat, plumbing, and safe conditions. But what happens when something breaks and your landlord is slow to respond? Here’s how to file a maintenance request that gets results, along with your rights under Vermont tenancy law.

Understanding Your Right to Repairs in Vermont

As a renter, you’re entitled to a rental unit that meets basic health and safety standards under the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act.^[1] This includes working plumbing, reliable heat, electricity, and no infestations or hazardous conditions. Landlords are responsible for most repairs unless you or your guests caused the damage.

What Is the Habitability Standard?

‘Habitability’ means your home is fit to live in. If something in your unit makes it unsafe or affects your day-to-day use (like a broken heater in winter or a leaky roof), your landlord must address it promptly.

How to File a Repair Request in Vermont

To get necessary repairs done, clear written communication is key. Vermont law doesn’t mandate a specific form, but following a process improves your chances of fast, thorough action.

• Document the Problem: Write down what needs repair, when it broke, and take photos if possible.
• Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Send a letter, email, or maintenance form describing the issue, your address, the date you noticed it, and what you want fixed. Keep a copy for your records.
• Allow a Reasonable Time for Response: Vermont law requires a “reasonable” time for repairs, depending on the severity—typically 14 days for non-emergency issues, faster for urgent repairs.
• Follow Up if Needed: If repairs aren’t made, send a second written notice stating the urgency.

There is no legislated state repair request form, but here’s a practical example of a written notice:

Sample Repair Request:
"Dear [Landlord Name],
On [date], I noticed that [describe problem]. Please arrange repairs within 14 days. Thank you, [Your Name & Address]."

What If Repairs Still Aren’t Done?

If you’ve properly notified your landlord and repairs are not made in a reasonable time, Vermont law gives you several options:

• Contact Local Code Enforcement if the issue endangers health or safety. Find your town office or visit the Vermont Department of Health Rental Housing Code page.
• File a Complaint in Small Claims Court if substantial repairs are needed and not addressed after notice.
• Withhold Rent or Repair and Deduct (under specific circumstances): Vermont law allows some remedies, but you must follow strict steps—seek legal advice first. See the details at Vermont Statutes § 4451–§ 4469.^[1]

Key Forms & Where to Find Them

• Vermont Small Claims Complaint (Form 800-00023)
  When to Use: If your landlord fails to act after written requests and the issue persists, you can file this form to seek repair-related compensation.
  Download Small Claims Complaint Form
  How to Use: Fill out with details of your repair issue, attach copies of your written requests, and file with the court clerk. For guidance, visit the Vermont Judiciary Court Forms page.

Vermont does not have a statewide repair request or code complaint form, so check with your local town office for any municipal options.

Who Handles Tenancy Disputes in Vermont?

The Vermont Judiciary (Superior Court, Civil Division) is responsible for resolving disputes under Vermont tenancy law, including unresolved repair requests.

What Vermont's Rental Law Says

Your rights and remedies are defined in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: Chapter 137.^[1] This law details habitability standards, notice requirements, and your legal options if repairs are not completed.

FAQs: Vermont Renters and Repair Requests

1. What if my landlord doesn’t respond to my repair request?
   If your landlord ignores your request, send a second written notice. You may also contact your town’s health officer or code enforcement, or consider filing a complaint in Small Claims Court if the repair is essential.
2. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made?
   Vermont law allows rent withholding only in specific, serious situations—and only after proper notice. Always seek legal advice before withholding rent, as improper withholding can risk eviction.
3. Is there a form I must use for a repair request?
   No official state repair request form exists. Always use written, dated communication—letter, email, or maintenance request—with clear details of the repair needed.
4. Who enforces rental health codes in Vermont?
   Enforcement is local: contact your town’s health officer or the Vermont Department of Health for health and safety code issues.
5. Where can I file a formal complaint if my rental is unsafe?
   You can file a Small Claims Complaint using Form 800-00023 at the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont landlords must make necessary repairs to keep your unit habitable.
• Always submit repair requests in writing for a clear record.
• If your landlord fails to act, local code enforcement and the Vermont courts can help.

Following this process boosts your chance of getting repairs handled quickly and protects your rights as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Judiciary – For court forms and information on housing disputes
• Vermont Legal Aid – Renters Rights
• Vermont Department of Health – Rental Housing Health Code
• Contact your local town or city hall for code enforcement or health officer information

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4451–§ 4469)

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