Vermont Eviction Process Timeline: What Renters Need to Know

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Vermont, understanding the eviction process can help you protect your rights and respond effectively to landlord notices. Vermont laws set out clear steps and timelines both renters and landlords must follow. This guide breaks down the eviction process, including notice requirements, court procedures, and what you can do at each stage.

Understanding the Vermont Eviction Process

Eviction in Vermont is a formal legal process. Landlords cannot remove a tenant without obtaining a court order. Here’s a summary of the key eviction steps and your renter rights at each point.

1. Notice to Quit (Written Notice)

A landlord must first provide a written notice, called a "Notice to Quit," giving you a set amount of time to fix a problem (if allowed) or vacate. The notice period varies based on the reason:

• Nonpayment of Rent: At least 14 days' written notice.
• No Lease or Month-to-Month Tenancy: At least 60 days' notice; 21 days if you’ve lived there under 2 years.
• Lease Violations: Commonly 30 days, but may vary. For criminal activity or illegal acts, landlords may give as little as 14 days’ notice.

Visit Vermont Statutes Title 9, § 4467 for details about notice requirements.

2. Summons and Complaint (Starting the Court Process)

If you don’t move out by the end of the notice period, your landlord can file a lawsuit in the Civil Division of Vermont Superior Court. You must then be served with:

• Summons and Complaint (Form 400-00254)
  This form officially starts the court case. As a renter, you’ll receive a copy and must respond if you wish to contest the eviction. Download the official Summons and Complaint.
  When to use: If you receive this, review it carefully and file an appearance with the court by the deadline listed.
• Answer Form (Form 400-00255)
  This is the form renters use to respond and outline their side.
  Download the Answer Form.
  When to use: Complete this and file it within 21 days if you want to participate or object to the eviction.

Find forms and info at the Vermont Judiciary Civil Division Eviction Forms page.

3. Court Hearing

After the forms are filed, the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division (the official tribunal handling evictions) will schedule a hearing. Both you and your landlord can present evidence. The court will consider the facts and rule on the eviction request. You may raise defenses, such as payment made, improper notice, or uninhabitable conditions. See more at the Civil Division of Vermont Superior Court.

4. Writ of Possession

If the court rules in the landlord’s favor and issues a judgment for eviction, a “Writ of Possession” (Form 400-00256) is issued. This is a court order allowing the sheriff to remove you if you don’t leave voluntarily. You will typically have at least 7 days after the court order to vacate.

• Writ of Possession (Form 400-00256):
  • What it is: The official document the sheriff uses for a physical eviction.
  • When you’ll see it: If you’ve lost your eviction case and still haven’t moved out after all time periods, the sheriff will serve this document with the date you must leave.
  • View the official Writ of Possession form

Summary: Vermont evictions can take several weeks or longer, depending on notice periods, court scheduling, and tenant responses. You cannot be locked out or your things removed without a court order. For more details, see Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Law (Title 9, Chapter 137).

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

If you receive any eviction-related notice or paperwork, act quickly:

• Read Notices Carefully: Note any deadlines.
• Gather Evidence: Keep copies of payments, correspondence, or repair requests.
• Respond to Court Documents: Use the Answer Form and meet all deadlines listed on the court papers.
• Seek Assistance: Contact legal aid or tenant support if you have questions.

Eviction Process in Vermont: Key Forms & Where to Get Them

• Summons and Complaint (Form 400-00254) – Served to start the eviction court case.
• Answer Form (Form 400-00255) – For a tenant’s formal response.
• Writ of Possession (Form 400-00256) – Used if the court rules for the landlord and you must move out.

Vermont Eviction Timeline: Step-by-Step Reference

• Notice to Quit served (14–60 days depending on reason)
• If tenant stays, landlord files a Summons and Complaint
• Tenant has 21 days to file Answer after being served
• Court hearing scheduled
• If court grants eviction, Writ of Possession is issued (usually 7 more days to leave)
• Sheriff enforces removal if necessary

All timelines may vary based on local court schedules and whether you raise defenses or request more time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Evictions

1. How much notice must my landlord give before eviction in Vermont?
   It depends on the reason. For nonpayment of rent, at least 14 days. For no lease or month-to-month, generally 60 days. It may be as short as 21 days if you’ve rented for under 2 years, or less for specific lease violations. Learn about notice periods.
2. Can my landlord evict me without going to court?
   No. Landlords must follow the court process and obtain a judgment and a Writ of Possession before any physical eviction. Self-help evictions are illegal in Vermont.
3. What can I do if I receive a Summons and Complaint?
   Review the documents carefully. File an Answer with the court within 21 days to contest the eviction or raise defenses. Attend the hearing if you want your side considered.
4. Who handles eviction cases in Vermont?
   The Civil Division of the Vermont Superior Court handles all residential eviction cases. Find details at the Civil Division page.
5. What if I need more time to move?
   You can ask the court for more time during your hearing or in your Answer. The judge may or may not grant an extension based on your circumstances.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division – Handles eviction/landlord-tenant court cases statewide
• Vermont Legal Aid: Housing Help – Free legal support and advice for renters
• Vermont Department for Children and Families – Emergency Housing Assistance
• See full official court eviction forms here

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Law (Title 9, Chapter 137)
2. Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division
3. Official Vermont Eviction Forms and Instructions

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