Vermont Landlord Entry Laws: Notice & Privacy for Renters

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Vermont published June 21, 2025 Flag of Vermont

As a Vermont renter, it’s important to understand when and how your landlord can enter your unit. Vermont law protects your right to privacy in your home, while giving your landlord certain rights to enter for repairs, inspections, and emergencies. We’ll explain Vermont’s entry notice requirements, provide official resources, and advise how to take action if your rights are violated.

When Can a Landlord Enter a Rental Unit in Vermont?

Vermont state law grants landlords limited rights to enter rental properties. These include situations such as:

  • To inspect the premises
  • To make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, or alterations
  • To supply necessary services
  • To show the unit to prospective buyers, tenants, or contractors
  • In emergencies, such as fire, flood, or suspected gas leak

For non-emergency entry, specific notice requirements apply to help ensure your privacy.

Vermont Landlord Entry Notice Requirements

Vermont’s Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4460) sets clear standards for notice:

  • Landlords must provide at least 48 hours’ advance notice before entering your unit for non-emergency reasons.
  • Entry must occur at reasonable times, typically between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.
  • No notice is required if there’s a genuine emergency.
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What Counts as Proper Notice?

Vermont law does not require a specific form for landlord entry notice, but best practice is for your landlord to provide notice in writing (email, text, or letter) stating:

  • The intended date and time of entry
  • The reason for entry (e.g., repairs, inspection)
  • The name of the person(s) who will enter
You can ask for written notice if your landlord usually gives notice verbally. This creates a clear record in case disputes arise.

Which Official Forms or Complaints Can Renters Use?

Vermont does not provide a specific state-issued form for landlord entry notice. However, if you believe your landlord has entered illegally or failed to provide proper notice, you can:

While there is no standard “Landlord Entry Complaint” form, you can use the Consumer Assistance Program’s online complaint form to formally document your issue.

How Renters Can Respond to Violations

If you feel your privacy rights have been violated, act as soon as possible:

  • Politely inform your landlord in writing about the required notice
  • Keep a record of all communications and any incidents of entry
  • If unlawful entry continues, file a complaint or consider legal action
Document the date, time, and nature of all landlord entries—especially if proper notice was missing. This can help if you need to file a complaint.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Vermont?

Rental housing disputes—including landlord entry issues—are handled by the Vermont Judiciary. Small claims court is often suitable for disputes involving damages or violations of privacy rights. More information is available from the Vermont Small Claims Division.

Relevant Vermont Legislation

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How much notice does my landlord have to give before entering my apartment in Vermont?
    Landlords must give you at least 48 hours' notice for non-emergency entry. Notice should be given in writing when possible.
  2. Can my landlord enter without my permission in an emergency?
    Yes. In true emergencies such as fire, flooding, or immediate repairs, a landlord can enter without advance notice or your consent.
  3. What should I do if my landlord enters without notice?
    Document the incident, notify your landlord in writing, and file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program if the problem continues.
  4. Are there specific forms I can use to file a complaint about illegal entry?
    Vermont does not have a dedicated landlord entry complaint form, but you can use the Attorney General’s online complaint form.
  5. Who handles rental disputes in Vermont?
    The Vermont Judiciary—including Small Claims Court—handles rental disputes and privacy complaints between landlords and tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. See 9 V.S.A. § 4460 - Landlord's Right of Entry.
  2. See Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137).
  3. Consumer complaints can be submitted to the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program.
  4. The Vermont Judiciary handles housing and landlord-tenant disputes.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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