Vermont Rent Control Laws: 2025 Update for Renters

If you're a renter in Vermont, you may wonder whether Vermont has rent control or rent stabilization to protect tenants from high rent increases. The answer can affect your housing security and planning for the future. This article explains Vermont's current rent control laws, outlines your rights under state law, and provides official resources to help you navigate any changes in your rent.

Are There Rent Control or Rent Stabilization Laws in Vermont?

As of 2025, Vermont does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization. Landlords are generally allowed to raise rent at the end of a lease term, provided they follow proper notice requirements and do not discriminate or retaliate.

• Vermont law does not limit how much or how often rent can be raised for most rental units.
• Some municipalities may consider local ordinances, but as of 2025, no city or town in Vermont has enacted formal rent control.
• All landlords must comply with fair housing laws and notice rules before raising rent or ending a tenancy.

How Much Notice is Required for Vermont Rent Increases?

Landlords must provide written notice to tenants before increasing rent. According to the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4450), the minimum advance notice for a rent increase is:

• 60 days for month-to-month rental agreements
• Refer to your written lease for fixed-term rentals, as terms may vary

This notice must be in writing and delivered as required by your lease or Vermont law.

Can a Landlord Raise Rent for Any Reason?

Yes, as long as rent increases are not for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons and comply with the required written notice. Landlords cannot raise rent in reaction to you:

• Filing a legitimate complaint about housing conditions
• Requesting repairs or exercising other legal rights

Which Official Forms and Resources Apply?

Although Vermont does not require a specific rent increase form, landlords commonly use a written Rent Increase Notice. If you receive a notice you believe is improper, you can contact your local Vermont Superior Court - Civil Division or the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development.

• Notice of Rent Increase (No official form number)
  When to use: Landlords deliver this written form to tenants at least 60 days before the proposed increase, when raising rent on a month-to-month lease.
  Renter example: If you receive a notice with less than 60 days' warning, you may contest the timing with your landlord or seek advice from court or legal services.
  Landlord-Tenant Handbook (official guidance)

Where to Turn for Renter Disputes in Vermont

Vermont rental disputes, including issues with rent increases or landlord conduct, are typically handled in the Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division. Learn more and find your court at the Vermont Judiciary website.

Your Rights Under the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act

All renters are protected under the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act. Be aware of the following key rights and requirements:

• Landlords must provide proper written notice for rent increases (see 9 V.S.A. § 4450).
• Fair housing laws prohibit increases based on discrimination.
• No landlord can retaliate against tenants for exercising legal rights.

FAQ: Vermont Rent Control & Increase Rules

1. Does Vermont have rent control in 2025?
   No, Vermont does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws as of 2025.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   For month-to-month leases, landlords must give at least 60 days' written notice before increasing rent.
3. Can my landlord raise my rent for any reason?
   Landlords may raise rent with proper notice, but not for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons.
4. What should I do if my landlord raises rent without enough notice?
   Contact Vermont Legal Aid or your local Superior Court. You may contest the rent increase based on insufficient notice.
5. Who handles rental disputes in Vermont?
   The Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division handles rental disputes. Visit the Vermont Judiciary site to find your local court.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• No statewide rent control or rent stabilization in Vermont for 2025.
• Your landlord must give written notice (usually 60 days) before increasing rent.
• Contact state resources if you face an improper rent increase or dispute.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development – General housing resources
• Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division – Handles rental and landlord/tenant disputes
• Vermont Legal Aid – Tenant Resources
• Landlord-Tenant Handbook (Official PDF)

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1. See the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Official court information at the Vermont Judiciary
3. Guidance in the Vermont Landlord-Tenant Handbook

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