Vermont Move-Out Cleaning Standards: What Renters Must Know

Preparing for a move-out inspection in Vermont can be stressful, especially if you're unsure what cleaning standards are expected. Knowing your legal rights and obligations helps ensure you leave your rental in good shape and protect your security deposit. This guide covers move-out cleaning standards specific to Vermont, as well as key forms and where to get help if disputes arise.

Vermont Move-Out Cleaning Expectations

In Vermont, renters are required to return their unit in the same condition as when they moved in, minus normal wear and tear. The law does not require "professional" cleaning unless it was specified in your written lease. Instead, the expectation is reasonable cleanliness.

• Remove all personal belongings and trash from the premises.
• Clean kitchen appliances (inside and outside), counters, sinks, and cabinets.
• Wipe down bathrooms, including toilets, showers, mirrors, and sinks.
• Vacuum or sweep all floors and mop hard surfaces.
• Dust baseboards, window sills, and light fixtures where accessible.
• Patch small nail holes (if required by lease), but do not repair major damage beyond normal use.

Landlords cannot require a property to be cleaner than it was at move-in, aside from removing all added dirt, grime, and personal residue. "Normal wear and tear"—meaning the gradual deterioration from day-to-day living—cannot be deducted from your security deposit under Vermont law.^[1]

What Counts as "Normal Wear and Tear"?

Some examples of acceptable "wear and tear" include:

• Minor carpet or paint fading
• Small scuffs on floors
• Loose door handles

Damage that may be deducted from your deposit could include stains, holes in walls, or excessive dirt left behind.

Security Deposit and Move-Out Inspections

Vermont law says the landlord has 14 days after your tenancy ends to return the security deposit or provide a written list of deductions. Deductions can only be made for:

• Unpaid rent or utilities
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Unreasonable cleaning costs if the unit is left excessively dirty

A pre-move-out inspection is not legally required, but requesting one in writing before moving out allows you a chance to address potential cleaning issues and avoid disputes.

Requesting a Move-Out Inspection: Example Step

If you'd like to schedule an inspection, send your landlord a written request. While there is no official Vermont state form for this purpose, a simple letter or email stating your planned move-out date and asking for an inspection works well. Keep a copy for your records.

Relevant Vermont Forms and Resources

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (sample): Not state-mandated, but many Vermont landlords provide a checklist. Use it to document the unit's condition with photos both when you move in and out. A blank template from the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity is available.
• Small Claims Complaint Form: If you believe cleaning or damage deductions are unfair, you may file a security deposit dispute in Vermont Small Claims Court. Access the Small Claims Complaint Form and instructions on the Vermont Judiciary Small Claims Forms page.

Legal Authority for Disputes

Security deposit disputes are typically handled by the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division (Small Claims). More information on how cases are heard can be found via the Vermont Judiciary Civil Division.

Vermont’s tenancy laws are based on the Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 — Residential Rental Agreements.^[1]

FAQ: Vermont Cleaning and Move-Out Standards

1. What if my landlord demands professional cleaning?
   Unless your written lease states otherwise, landlords in Vermont cannot require professional cleaning after you move out. You must simply return the unit in "reasonably clean" condition.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   By law, your landlord has 14 days to return your security deposit or provide a list of deductions after your tenancy ends.
3. Can my landlord charge me for minor wear and tear?
   No, under Vermont law, landlords may not deduct from your security deposit for normal wear and tear, such as minor scuffs or faded paint.
4. Is there an official state cleaning checklist?
   Vermont does not require an official move-out cleaning checklist, but many renters use sample forms like those provided by local housing agencies.
5. What happens if I disagree with cleaning charges?
   If you believe deductions are unfair, you can file a claim in Vermont Small Claims Court using the Small Claims Complaint Form.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Return your rental unit clean, not spotless—normal wear and tear is expected.
• Review your lease for any additional cleaning obligations.
• Use photos and checklists to protect your security deposit.
• Seek help if you believe deductions are unfair—Vermont has strong tenant protections.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Statute (Title 9, Chapter 137)
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division (Small Claims)
• Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (Tenant Support)
• Vermont Legal Aid—Housing Help
• Vermont Small Claims Court Forms and Instructions

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1. ^[1] See Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Chapter 137 — Residential Rental Agreements

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