Vermont Landlord Legal Disclosures Before Move-In

Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Vermont published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Vermont

Moving into a Vermont rental can be exciting, but it’s important to know which legal disclosures your landlord must give you before you sign the lease or receive your keys. Understanding these requirements helps make sure you start your tenancy with clear information and protection under Vermont law.

What Legal Disclosures Must Vermont Landlords Provide?

Vermont law requires landlords to inform renters about specific conditions, hazards, and rules before move-in. These disclosures help renters make informed decisions and protect their health and safety.

  • Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: For properties built before 1978, federal and state law require landlords to inform tenants about known lead-based paint hazards. See the official EPA Lead Disclosure Rule.
  • Rental Housing Code: Landlords must certify that the property meets basic habitability standards set by the Vermont Rental Housing Health Code. More information and specific requirements can be found in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4451–4477).1
  • Owner or Agent Disclosure: The landlord must provide in writing the name and address of the person authorized to manage the property and the owner’s address for legal notices. This must be stated in the lease or provided separately.
  • Heating and Utility Service: If heat and utilities are not included in rent, the landlord must state in writing which services the tenant is responsible for and the source of each utility (oil, gas, electric).
  • Security Deposit Receipt: If a security deposit is collected, the amount and terms must be clearly stated and a receipt must be provided.

Official Forms for Vermont Renters

Certain disclosures must be provided using official or government-recommended forms:

Your Lease Must Clearly State the Manager and Owner

The lease should specifically list the landlord’s contact details and, if a different person manages the building, that person’s name and address too. This guarantees you know who to reach for maintenance, complaints, or official notices.

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What Happens If a Landlord Doesn’t Provide the Required Disclosures?

If a landlord fails to provide a required disclosure, it could affect the terms of your tenancy, your safety, or the landlord’s ability to enforce the lease. For example, not providing the Lead Paint Disclosure can result in federal penalties and give you legal options if lead hazards are discovered later.

Most lease violations, including missing disclosures, are handled under Vermont’s Residential Rental Agreements Act.1 If you believe disclosures are missing, raise the issue with your landlord in writing first. If not resolved, you may contact local health officials or file a complaint (see resources below).

It’s always a good idea to request all disclosures and keep copies for your records. This protects you if issues arise later.

Additional Rights and Protections for Vermont Renters

Alongside disclosure rules, Vermont state law gives renters the right to:

  • Receive a habitable, safe home that meets health codes
  • Get written terms for rent, deposits, and utilities
  • Have advance notice and documentation for any deposit deductions

You can read the full details in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act.1

FAQs About Vermont Landlord Disclosures

  1. What is the most important disclosure Vermont landlords must provide?
    For most renters, knowing about lead-based paint hazards is vital, especially in housing built before 1978. You should always receive the EPA Lead Disclosure form if your unit applies.
  2. How do I know if my rental unit must meet the Rental Housing Health Code?
    All Vermont rental properties—apartments, homes, and mobile homes—must meet basic health and safety codes. Ask your landlord for a written compliance statement or check with your local health department.
  3. Can I refuse to move in if I don't get the required disclosures?
    You do not have to move in until you have received all required disclosures. Consider informing your landlord in writing and keep all communications for your records.
  4. Who handles disputes about missing landlord disclosures in Vermont?
    The Vermont Superior Court: Civil Division handles disputes between landlords and tenants, including issues with missing disclosures.
  5. Do landlords have to provide a copy of the lease?
    Yes, you must receive a written lease or rental agreement, which should include all disclosures and contact information for the landlord and manager, if any.

Conclusion: Starting Your Vermont Rental With Confidence

To summarize, Vermont law requires landlords to provide clear, written disclosures before move-in. These include lead paint information, housing code compliance, and the names and addresses of responsible parties. Always review disclosures before signing your lease and keep copies for your protection.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4451–4477)

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

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

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