Vermont Apartment Move-In Checklist: Essential Inspections Before You Sign

Moving into a new Vermont apartment can be exciting, but it's important to protect yourself by carefully inspecting the unit before signing any lease agreement. Vermont law requires certain disclosures and protects tenants through the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, helping you avoid disputes later.

What to Inspect Before Signing a Lease in Vermont

Before you sign a lease, conduct a thorough walkthrough with your landlord. Use this as your own move-in checklist:

• Appliances and Fixtures: Test all appliances, faucets, sinks, toilets, and lights. Note any malfunctions or missing items.
• Doors and Windows: Open and close all doors and windows. Check locks for security and confirm screens are intact.
• Walls and Flooring: Look for holes, stains, or excessive wear. Spot water damage or mold, which should be addressed before you move in.
• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Vermont landlords must provide working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each one and note any missing units.
• Heating and Plumbing: Test heaters and check for leaks under sinks and around toilets.
• Pests or Signs of Infestation: Look for evidence of rodents or insects. Vermont law requires landlords to maintain a safe and clean environment.
• General Cleanliness: The unit should be reasonably clean and sanitary.

Required Disclosures and Inspections

• Lead Paint Disclosure: For homes built before 1978, your landlord must give you the EPA-approved lead paint disclosure form and notify you of any known lead hazards.
• Code Violations: The landlord must inform you if the unit has outstanding health or safety code violations that have not yet been fixed. Ask to see documentation or contact the local Vermont Department of Health.
• Flooding Disclosure: If the property is in a flood hazard area, the landlord should let you know before you move in.

You should request copies of all disclosures and keep them with your lease paperwork.

Move-In Checklists: Documentation and Best Practices

While Vermont law does not require a specific move-in checklist form, it’s strongly recommended that you complete a written checklist with your landlord. Both parties should sign and date it, then keep copies. You may also take photos or videos of each room on move-in day.

If your landlord collects a security deposit, this documentation is critical to avoid deductions for damage you didn’t cause when you move out.

Security Deposit Rules in Vermont

• Landlords typically collect a security deposit as protection against damages or unpaid rent.
• By law, they must return your deposit within 14 days of move-out, minus any itemized deductions.
• Accurate move-in documentation helps you recover your full deposit.

Review the full details in the Vermont law on security deposits.

Vermont Official Forms: Move-In and Disclosure

• EPA Lead Paint Disclosure Form (EPA Form)
  When used: For any rental built before 1978, landlords must give this form to prospective renters before signing the lease. For example, if you're considering renting a 1950s apartment in Burlington, your landlord must provide this form and any available lead hazard reports before you agree to rent.
• Sample Vermont Move-In / Move-Out Checklist (Vermont Attorney General PDF)
  When used: Not legally required, but recommended for documenting the condition of the unit upon move-in and move-out. For example, if you note a scratch on the floor when you move in, it won't be counted against your deposit when you move out.

Who Handles Disputes? Vermont's Tribunal for Tenants and Landlords

If you and your landlord cannot agree about the move-in condition, security deposit, or disclosures, you may need to file a claim in Vermont Small Claims Court. This is where most residential tenancy disputes are resolved.

For issues involving health, safety, or code compliance, contact your local code enforcement office or the Vermont Department of Health.

The Law: Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act

Vermont tenants’ move-in rights are covered by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act. This law outlines landlord duties, security deposit rules, and tenant protection.

FAQs: Vermont Move-In Inspections and Your Rights

1. Do Vermont landlords have to provide a move-in checklist? Vermont law does not require a specific checklist, but using one helps protect both parties and is strongly recommended.
2. What should I do if I find damage during my inspection? Document all issues on your checklist, take photos, and ensure the landlord signs off before you move in.
3. Can I refuse to move in if the unit isn't up to code? Yes, you can refuse to move in or request necessary repairs before signing the lease. You have the right to a habitable, code-compliant home.
4. Are landlords required to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before move-in? Yes, Vermont law requires landlords to provide and maintain working detectors in every rental unit.
5. What if my landlord won't return my security deposit? If your landlord withholds your deposit without reason, you may file a claim in Vermont Small Claims Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: Full tenant and landlord laws
• Vermont Department of Health Rental Codes: Health and safety standards
• UVM Rental Code Information: Burlington renters’ guide
• Vermont Attorney General – Housing Contacts: Tenant resources and dispute help
• Vermont Small Claims Court: For tenant-landlord claim filing

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. Chapter 137 – official legislation
2. Vermont Department of Health, Rental Housing Health Code – official code
3. EPA, Lead Paint Disclosure Rule – lead disclosure requirements
4. Vermont Attorney General, Move-In/Move-Out Checklist – official sample checklist
5. Vermont Small Claims Court – official tribunal site

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