Vermont Rental Properties: Safe Drinking Water Rules

Every renter in Vermont deserves access to safe, clean drinking water. Whether you live in a city apartment or a rural home on private well water, understanding your rights and your landlord's responsibilities can help protect your health and home. Vermont law sets minimum water quality standards in rental properties and outlines steps if problems occur.

Vermont Drinking Water Standards for Rentals

Vermont requires that all rental properties provide drinking water that is safe and suitable for consumption. This applies whether the water comes from a public source (like city water) or a private well. The property must also have adequate hot and cold running water.

Who Regulates Drinking Water in Vermont Rentals?

• The Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4450 et seq.) sets building habitability requirements, including water safety.
• The Vermont Department of Health oversees public health and drinking water quality for both public and private systems.
• The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulates public water supplies and monitors water quality violations.

Water provided must not contain contaminants above state or federal health standards. Examples include bacteria (like E. coli), lead, and nitrates.

Landlords’ Duties: Ensuring Safe Water

• Landlords must provide safe, potable water at all times.
• If a property uses well water, landlords are responsible for its regular testing and treatment, unless the lease clearly states otherwise.
• Repairs or treatment required to comply with standards must be completed promptly.

If you’re facing water quality concerns—for example, if your tap water smells odd, appears cloudy, or you suspect contamination—report the problem in writing to your landlord right away. Vermont law requires landlords to act within a reasonable time to resolve health and safety issues.

Relevant Forms and Processes

• Vermont Tenant Complaint Form (VT Department of Health)
  • When to use: If your landlord is not addressing health or water safety concerns after you’ve notified them in writing.
  • How to use: Complete the tenant complaint form with details, then submit it online or by mail to the Department of Health for investigation.
  • Download the Vermont Water Complaint Form (PDF)

If you need to pursue further action, the Vermont Superior Court – Housing Division is the tribunal responsible for rental disputes, including habitability issues or enforcement.

If You Suspect Unsafe Drinking Water: Steps to Take

If you believe your drinking water is contaminated or unsafe, take the following steps:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the issue as soon as possible.
• Request that the landlord have the water tested for safety.
• If the landlord does not respond or act, contact the Vermont Department of Health and consider submitting the above complaint form.
• If the water is proven unsafe and not quickly fixed, you may have the right to withhold rent until repairs are made or to seek legal remedies through the Housing Division.

Quick Summary

Vermont's rental laws prioritize your health by requiring landlords to provide clean drinking water. They must fix contamination issues in a timely manner, and official avenues exist to help renters enforce their rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my tap water tastes or smells strange?
   If you notice unusual tastes, odors, or discoloration, notify your landlord in writing immediately. Request a water quality test. If there’s no prompt response, contact the Vermont Department of Health.
2. Is my landlord responsible for testing and treating well water?
   Yes, unless your lease says otherwise, your landlord is required to ensure well water meets safety standards and arrange regular testing.
3. Can I withhold rent if my drinking water is unsafe?
   If water issues threaten your health and your landlord fails to fix them after written notice, you may have legal grounds to withhold rent. However, consult the Housing Division or seek legal advice before withholding rent.
4. How can I file an official complaint about unsafe water in my rental?
   You can fill out the Vermont Water Complaint Form and submit it to the Department of Health. They may inspect the issue and order your landlord to fix it if necessary.
5. Which government office handles rental disputes in Vermont?
   The Vermont Superior Court – Housing Division handles landlord-tenant issues, including habitability and water safety concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Vermont landlords must provide safe, clean drinking water in all rental units.
• Tenants should report water safety concerns in writing and keep records.
• Official forms, health inspections, and the Housing Division are available if problems aren’t quickly resolved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – Full text of the law covering rental habitability and water standards.
• Vermont Department of Health – Water testing, complaint forms, and renter health information. Tel: (800) 464-4343
• Vermont Superior Court – Housing Division – Tribunal for rental disputes and habitability complaints.
• VT Dept. of Environmental Conservation: Drinking Water Program – Public water safety standards and rules.

---

1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. § 4450: See Full Law Here
2. Vermont Department of Health – Water Testing & Complaints: Official Health Department Site
3. Vermont Superior Court – Housing Division: Official Tribunal Information
4. Vermont Drinking Water Program (DEC): Public Water Supply Standards

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations