Vermont Military Off-Base Housing: Rights for Renters

Renting off-base as an active military member or family in Vermont brings unique legal rights and protections. It’s important to know your Vermont renter rights, what laws apply, and where to turn for help if issues come up with your landlord or rental property.

Military Renters’ Rights in Vermont Off-Base Housing

When you rent a private apartment or home off-base in Vermont as a service member, you have all the same protections as any renter—plus special federal safeguards. Here are some key points:

• Vermont Tenant Protection Act covers all standard tenant rights and responsibilities in the state.
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides extra protections (including early lease termination if deployed).
• Vermont Human Rights Commission makes it illegal to discriminate against you for military service.

All landlords in Vermont—private owners and property management companies—must follow these laws for service members renting off-base. For military-only housing operated by the federal government or Department of Defense, special housing rules may apply, but most off-base rentals are covered under state landlord-tenant law.

Your Lease, Deposits, and Payments

Before signing a rental agreement, carefully review your lease terms. Vermont law typically requires a written lease for a fixed-term tenancy, which will explain rent, deposits, and obligations on both sides. For month-to-month rentals, a written agreement is strongly recommended. Official Vermont tenant/landlord rights are governed by Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 – Residential Rental Agreements.¹

Security Deposits

• Landlords can require a security deposit, but must return it within 14 days of lease end, less any documented damages.
• You have the right to a move-in and move-out inspection—get documentation in writing.

Early Termination & Deployment

If you receive deployment or permanent change of station orders (PCS), the SCRA allows you to break your lease early without penalty. To use this protection, you must:

• Give your landlord written notice with a copy of your military orders.
• Your lease will end 30 days after your next rent due date following notice.

Use the SCRA Lease Termination Notice Form with your orders. (No official state version exists for Vermont, but the Department of Defense provides guidance. See the official SCRA guidance.)

Rent Increases and Repairs

Vermont does not limit by law how much a landlord can increase rent, but strict notice rules apply. For month-to-month tenants, a landlord must give at least 60 days’ advance notice in writing before a rent hike can take effect. Leases generally lock in rent for the lease term unless otherwise stated.

If you have issues with needed repairs—such as plumbing, heat, or safety problems—state law requires that the landlord maintain basic habitability standards. Send a written request and keep a copy for your records. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office or local health officials.

Official Forms for Vermont Renters

• Notice of Termination of Tenancy (Form not numbered)
  • Used by tenants to end a month-to-month rental—give to landlord in writing at least a full rental period (usually 30 days) before moving out.
  • See template and guidelines on the Vermont Attorney General landlord/tenant page.
• SCRA Lease Termination Notice (Federal Guidance. No official VT form.)
  • Used by service members needing to end leases early due to military orders.
  • Sample forms and requirements provided on the Department of Justice SCRA resource page.
• Complaint Form – Attorney General’s Office
  • Use to report landlord violations, including habitability, deposit, or discrimination issues.
  • Access the complaint form on the Vermont AGO landlord/tenant portal.

If you’re unsure about a form or your rights, consider contacting the Vermont Attorney General for renter-specific assistance.

Eviction Protections and Tribunal Process

Landlords in Vermont must follow strict processes to evict any tenant, including military families. Eviction can only happen by court order (never simple notice from the landlord). The process is overseen by Vermont’s Superior Court, Civil Division. You must be given formal written notice—

• 30 days for non-payment of rent or lease violation (but this can vary depending on your lease)
• Your right to respond in court before any lockout

Military renters have additional protections against default judgments in court under the SCRA. For more information, review the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act and federal SCRA guidance.²

Steps if You Receive an Eviction Notice

If you get an eviction notice, act quickly:

• Check notice details and reason for eviction
• Respond in writing to your landlord
• Prepare for court hearing if needed (seek legal help if you’re called to active duty)
• Contact the Vermont Attorney General or legal aid for help

FAQ: Vermont Military Off-Base Rental Issues

1. Can I break my Vermont lease if I receive new orders?
   Yes, under the federal SCRA, military members can terminate a lease early without penalty if you receive qualifying deployment or PCS orders. Written notice and a copy of your orders must be provided.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   Vermont law requires landlords to return your security deposit within 14 days after the end of your tenancy, minus any damages or unpaid rent (with an itemized statement).
3. Are there limits on rent increases in Vermont off-base housing?
   No state law limits the amount of a rent increase for private rentals, but at least 60 days’ written notice is required for month-to-month tenancies.
4. Who handles complaints about rental housing or landlord issues?
   You can file a formal complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office for issues like habitability, discrimination, or security deposit disputes. Evictions are processed in Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division.
5. Can my landlord evict me while I’m on deployment?
   Military renters may have special protections against eviction under the SCRA. If you face an eviction threat during active service, contact legal aid or the Vermont Attorney General right away.

Key Takeaways for Military Renters in Vermont

• Military renters off-base have strong rights under both Vermont law and the SCRA.
• Always provide written notice for lease changes, terminations, or if repairs are needed.
• Get documentation and seek official help early if problems arise with your landlord or property.

Remember, understanding your rights is the best way to ensure your rental experience is fair and secure.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Attorney General’s Office – Landlord/Tenant Information: Guides, forms, and complaint process.
• Vermont Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination in housing (including military/veteran status).
• Department of Justice – SCRA Resources: Federal protections for servicemembers.
• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division: For all rental eviction cases and tenant-landlord disputes.
• Vermont Legal Aid – Renters’ Rights: Free and low-cost legal help for tenants and military personnel.

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1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 – Residential Rental Agreements
2. Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) – U.S. Department of Justice

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