Vermont Hotel and Motel Tenant Rights Explained

If you've been living in a Vermont hotel or motel for more than a short stay, you may wonder if you have the same rights as traditional renters. Knowing your rights is especially important if you're dealing with rent increases, nonrenewal, or eviction from a hotel or motel in Vermont. This guide breaks down how Vermont law applies to hotel and motel residents and what you can do if you face problems with your stay.

When Does a Hotel or Motel Guest Become a Tenant in Vermont?

In Vermont, the distinction between a guest and a tenant in a hotel or motel is important because it determines your legal protections. Generally, you are considered a tenant if you have been living in a hotel, motel, or similar establishment for 30 consecutive days or more, and you do not have another permanent home. This gives you rights under Vermont’s tenant laws.

• Stays under 30 days: You are usually considered a "guest" and can be asked to leave at any time, unless there's a written agreement.
• Stays of 30+ consecutive days: You may become a "tenant" and have legal protections against sudden eviction and certain rent increases.
• Your status may also depend on other factors, such as whether you pay rent weekly/monthly and if you treat your room as your primary residence.

Your Rights as a Hotel or Motel Tenant in Vermont

Once you reach tenant status (after 30 days or according to specific circumstances), the following rights under the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act apply:

• Right to Notice Before Eviction: You cannot be removed without notice. The owner must follow the legal eviction process just as with a standard apartment.
• Advance Notice of Rent Increase: Rent cannot be increased without proper notice, typically 60 days in writing.
• Habitability: The motel or hotel must keep the room safe and livable, including working plumbing, heat, and electricity.
• Access to Legal Process: If the property owner wants you to leave, they must file for eviction through the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division.

These rules protect long-term hotel and motel residents from sudden eviction and ensure a safe living environment.

Eviction Process: Forms and Procedure

If a motel or hotel owner wants to evict a tenant, they must use the same process as for any rental unit. Here are the essential steps for renters:

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form): The owner must provide a written notice stating why you are being asked to leave and the date by which you must move out. The notice period is usually at least 14 days for nonpayment or 30-60 days for other reasons, depending on circumstances.
• Summons and Complaint: If you do not leave by the date in the notice, the owner may file an eviction action ("Summons and Complaint") with the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division. You will be formally served papers and given a court date. View the official eviction complaint form (Complaint–Eviction, RENT 11.19).

Example: If you've lived in a motel for 40 days and the manager claims you must leave immediately, you have the right to ask for written notice and challenge a sudden removal through the legal process.

How to Respond if Faced with Removal from a Hotel or Motel

• Ask for written notice if you are told to leave and have lived there for 30+ days.
• Do not leave voluntarily if you wish to contest the eviction—wait for a formal notice and court process.
• Contact Vermont Legal Aid or the Vermont Judiciary for advice and support (see resources below).

Relevant Tribunals and Where to Get Help

All eviction matters are handled by the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division. If you receive a court summons, respond promptly and attend your hearing.

Understanding Vermont Tenancy Legislation

Your rights and responsibilities as a hotel or motel tenant are defined by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (Title 9, Chapter 137). This law covers rental agreements, notice requirements, and habitability standards.

FAQ: Vermont Hotel and Motel Tenancy

1. Can I be evicted from a Vermont motel with no notice?
   If you have stayed for less than 30 days, you are typically a guest and can be asked to leave without formal notice. If you’ve stayed for 30 days or more, you are likely a tenant and must receive proper written notice before eviction, as per Vermont law.
2. What should I do if the motel increases my rent suddenly?
   If you have tenant status, the motel must give you at least 60 days' advance written notice of a rent increase. If proper notice isn’t given, you can challenge the increase through the Vermont Superior Court.
3. How do I file a complaint if I am locked out illegally?
   If locked out after 30 days, contact local law enforcement and file a complaint in the Civil Division of the Vermont Superior Court. Reach out to Vermont Legal Aid for assistance.
4. Who oversees disputes between motel tenants and owners?
   The Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division handles these disputes and all eviction matters related to hotel and motel residents deemed tenants.
5. Where can I find eviction forms or tenant rights information?
   Official eviction forms and guides for renters are available on the Vermont Judiciary – Landlord/Tenant Cases page.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Hotel and Motel Tenants

• After 30 consecutive days in a hotel or motel, you may be considered a "tenant" and have legal protections under state law.
• Motel/hotel tenants cannot be evicted without written notice and a formal legal process, handled through the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division.
• Use official Vermont judiciary resources and contact Vermont Legal Aid for help if you face sudden removal or have concerns about your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division – Handles motel/hotel eviction cases and tenant disputes.
• Vermont Legal Aid: Housing Help – Free help for tenants, including those living in hotels and motels (phone and online assistance).
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – Official state tenancy laws.
• Vermont Judiciary: Landlord/Tenant Self-Help – Forms, guides, and court information for renters.

---

1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (Title 9, Chapter 137)
2. Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division
3. Vermont Judiciary – Landlord/Tenant Cases and Forms
4. Vermont Legal Aid: Housing Law Help

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations