Vermont Rental Health Codes: Minimum Standards for Renters

Vermont renters are protected by state laws and health codes that set minimum standards for safe and healthy rental housing. If you're living in a rental, understanding these requirements can help you ensure you have a safe, habitable home—and know what to do if something isn't right.

Understanding Vermont's Housing Health Code Standards

Vermont law requires all rental housing to be kept safe, sanitary, and fit for human habitation. These rules are established through both state legislation and local ordinances. The state’s Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137) outlines landlord and tenant obligations, while the Vermont Rental Housing Health Code details minimum health and safety requirements.^1,2

Key Minimum Standards Under Vermont Law

• Structural Safety: The building must have sound floors, walls, and roofs free from leaks or hazards.
• Heat and Ventilation: Adequate heating (at least 65°F from September 15 to May 15) and proper ventilation must be provided.
• Water Supply: Safe, sufficient hot and cold running water at all times.
• Plumbing & Sewage: Working toilets, baths/showers, and functioning drains are required.
• Pest Control: Units must be free from infestation; landlords handle treatment unless tenants cause the issue.
• Electrical and Lighting: Safe wiring, sufficient outlets, and adequate lighting in all areas.
• Sanitation: The premises, including garbage disposal, must be clean and sanitary.

If your landlord fails to meet these standards, you have rights and may take steps to resolve health or safety issues.

Who Enforces Housing Health Codes in Vermont?

Enforcement of Vermont’s rental health standards is generally handled at the municipal or local level. Your local town health officer investigates complaints and can order landlords to fix violations. If problems persist, Vermont’s Department of Health and, in rare cases, courts may get involved. For housing disputes, the recognized tribunal is the Vermont Superior Court’s Civil Division in your county.

Reporting a Health or Safety Violation

If your rental doesn’t meet standards, start by notifying your landlord in writing, describing the issue and asking for repairs. If there’s no response, you can submit a complaint to your local health officer.

Important Vermont Forms for Renters

• Complaint of Rental Housing Code Violation
  • When to use: If your landlord doesn’t address health or safety concerns, submit this with your town/city health officer.
  • Example: If you have no heat in winter and your landlord ignores your emails, file this form to request an inspection.
  • Rental Housing Complaint Form (PDF)
• Tenant Notice to Landlord of Deficiency
  • When to use: To notify the landlord in writing of any code violation before reporting to authorities.
  • Example: Use this letter before escalating a complaint about mold, leaks, or broken plumbing.
  • Sample Notice to Landlord

How the Inspection and Complaint Process Works

After submitting a complaint, a local health officer may inspect your unit. If violations exist, the officer may issue an order requiring repairs. Landlords must comply within the timeline provided. For unresolved issues, you may seek action in the Vermont Superior Court’s Civil Division or get support from the Vermont Department of Health.

If you’re unsure about your rights or how to start a complaint, contact your local health officer or a renters' support service (see resources below) for guidance.

Your Rights as a Renter

The Residential Rental Agreements Act protects Vermont tenants from retaliation if they report code violations. You can’t be evicted just for making a complaint about unsafe living conditions.¹

FAQ: Vermont Health and Safety Codes for Renters

1. What should I do if my landlord won’t make repairs for a health or safety violation?
   Notify your landlord in writing, then use the official Rental Housing Complaint Form if there is no response. Your local health officer can investigate and order repairs.
2. Who is responsible for pest control in a Vermont rental?
   Unless you caused the problem, your landlord is responsible for ensuring the unit is pest-free and arranging necessary treatment.
3. Does my landlord have to provide heat during winter in Vermont?
   Yes, landlords must ensure heat is available so the temperature stays at least 65°F indoors from September 15 to May 15.
4. Which government body handles housing code violations in Vermont?
   Your local health officer handles initial complaints; if unresolved, the Vermont Superior Court’s Civil Division manages formal disputes.
5. Can my landlord evict me for reporting a health or safety issue?
   No, Vermont law prohibits retaliation against tenants who make good faith health and safety complaints.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Town Health Officers – Rental Code Enforcement: Find your local official to report violations or get help.
• Vermont Attorney General's Consumer Assistance Program: Guidance and mediation for housing disputes and complaints.
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: Full, official tenant and landlord responsibilities.
• Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division: Tribunal for unresolved rental housing cases.
• Vermont Legal Aid – Housing Unit: Free or low-cost legal help for renters.

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Vermont Rental Housing Health Code

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