Sealing an Eviction Record in Vermont: A Renter’s Guide

If you’ve experienced an eviction in Vermont, the record can make it much harder to rent a home in the future. Fortunately, the state allows for certain eviction records to be sealed, offering a second chance for tenants to rebuild their rental history. This guide explains how to request sealing of eviction records in Vermont, what forms are required, the eligibility rules, and where to get help.

Understanding Eviction Record Sealing in Vermont

In Vermont, eviction cases are handled by the Vermont Judiciary, specifically in the Civil Division of the Superior Court. If you had an eviction case (also called "ejectment"), it may show up on background checks even if you won the case or the landlord later withdrew the claim. Sealing your eviction record means that this information is no longer publicly visible in court databases, helping protect your privacy and future housing opportunities.

When Can an Eviction Record Be Sealed?

You can request to seal your record if:

• The case was dismissed.
• You won the case as the tenant.
• You and your landlord settled, and the judge ordered the record to be sealed.
• In some rare cases, if a judge finds that sealing is “in the interests of justice.”

Generally, eviction records where a judge ruled against the tenant are not eligible for sealing unless there are exceptional circumstances.

How to Seal Your Eviction Record in Vermont

Sealing an eviction record requires filing a formal request (a "motion") with the court where your case was heard. This is a written document asking the judge to seal the public record of your eviction case. Vermont law allows you to ask to seal after the case concludes, especially if you were not evicted or if it was dismissed.

Required Form: Motion to Seal

• Form Name: Motion to Seal (Form 600-00033)
  Purpose: Used to request that the court seals (hides) the eviction record from public inspection.
  When to Use It: You might use this form if your eviction case was dismissed, settled, or you won. For example: After winning your eviction case, you fill out the Motion to Seal and file it at the courthouse where the eviction was filed against you.
  Download the official Motion to Seal form from the Vermont Judiciary.

Action Steps to File a Motion to Seal

• Fill out the Motion to Seal form completely. Be sure to include your case number and explain why sealing the record serves justice (e.g., the case was dismissed or settled).
• File the form with the Clerk at the Superior Court location where your eviction case was heard. See Vermont court locations.
• The judge will review your request. Sometimes, a hearing is scheduled to gather more information.
• If the court grants your request, they will issue an order sealing the eviction record.

It’s always a good idea to ask the Clerk about local procedures or deadlines, as some details may vary by county.

If your eviction case was dismissed or you won, you are likely eligible to request sealing of the record in Vermont. This can help improve your chances of renting in the future.

What Laws Govern Eviction Record Sealing?

The main laws relating to renter protections, including eviction, are found in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137). Procedures for sealing records are mostly set by judicial policy and the court’s inherent authority.

• Section 4456 details eviction notice and process
• Court policies provide the ability to request sealing for dismissed or settled cases

If your eviction record has been sealed, it will not be available to landlords or the public, but certain government agencies may still be able to access sealed records for law enforcement or court purposes.

What Happens After Your Record Is Sealed?

Once your request is approved and the record is sealed:

• The eviction case is no longer viewable by the public or tenant screening companies.
• You may say on rental applications that you have not been evicted in a case sealed under a court order.
• Only limited parties, such as law enforcement, may be able to access the record.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can any eviction record in Vermont be sealed?
   Not all eviction records can be sealed. If you lost your case and were evicted after a court trial, sealing is unlikely unless exceptional circumstances apply. Dismissed cases or those you won are typically eligible.
2. Does sealing an eviction record mean it’s erased?
   No. Sealed means the record is hidden from public and landlord view, but it still exists in the court system for limited, official use.
3. How long does the eviction record sealing process take?
   Timelines depend on the court’s schedule and whether a hearing is needed, but it usually takes several weeks from filing to a judge’s decision.
4. Is there a fee to file a Motion to Seal?
   In most civil courts in Vermont, there is no fee to file this specific motion. If you’re unsure, contact the courthouse clerk for your county.
5. Will sealing my record guarantee future landlords can’t see my past eviction?
   Once sealed, standard background checks by landlords should not include your eviction record, helping your future rental prospects.

Conclusion: What Vermont Renters Should Remember

• Sealing an eviction record can provide you with a fresh start and increased housing opportunities.
• The process requires filing a Motion to Seal at the court where your case was handled—this is most successful for tenants whose cases were dismissed or they won.
• Consult official resources or support services if you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with forms.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Judiciary Home Page – Case lookup, forms, and courthouse contacts
• Vermont Law Help – Renters – Free legal information and support
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – Full landlord-tenant laws
• Find a Vermont Superior Court
• Contact your local court clerk for help with forms and filing procedures

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Vermont Judiciary (State Court System)
3. Motion to Seal (Form 600-00033)

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