Vermont Rules for Property Left Behind After Moving Out

When moving out of a Vermont rental, it’s not uncommon for tenants to accidentally or hurriedly leave personal belongings behind. Whether it’s furniture, clothing, or electronics, Vermont’s laws set out detailed rules landlords must follow regarding abandoned property. If you’re a renter in Vermont, understanding what happens to left-behind items can help you protect your possessions and avoid unexpected fees or losses.

What Counts as Abandonment in Vermont?

Vermont law considers property abandoned when the rental unit appears vacant, your rental agreement has ended, or you’re no longer residing there. The landlord can’t immediately dispose of your belongings—they must follow a legal process set by Vermont statutes.

Steps Landlords Must Take for Abandoned Property

Vermont’s laws require landlords to:

• Check if you truly abandoned the property, usually after a clear move-out or lease end.
• Store your left-behind items in a safe place for at least 60 days.
• Try to contact you, using your last known address or any forwarding information provided, to notify you about the stored property.
• Give you a written notice that explains how to reclaim your belongings and any costs you may owe for storage.

Your landlord cannot sell, donate, or throw away your belongings during this 60-day period unless you give written consent or claim them sooner.

How to Reclaim Your Property

If you find out you left something behind, contact your landlord as soon as possible. You may need to pay reasonable storage costs before collecting your items. After the 60-day period, if unclaimed, the landlord may dispose of or sell the property and keep the proceeds (minus costs and owed rent).

Official Forms: Is There a Vermont Abandoned Property Notice?

Currently, Vermont does not have a government-issued standardized form for landlords to notify tenants about abandoned property. Instead, landlords must provide written notice as required by Vermont law, typically by mail. As a renter, if you receive such a notice after moving out, read it carefully—it will include details on how to reclaim your items and whom to contact.

If you believe your property has been improperly disposed of, you can seek recourse by contacting your local Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, which handles disputes related to rental housing matters (Vermont Superior Court Civil Division).

Relevant Legislation and Authorities

• Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, § 4469 – Abandonment; disposition of property
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division – handles rental issues and disputes

Disputes or Problems? What Vermont Renters Can Do

If your landlord did not follow the correct process for abandoned property or kept items you feel should have been returned:

• Document everything—including photos, receipts, and correspondence
• Contact the landlord in writing to request the return of your property
• If unresolved, file a claim in small claims court at the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division

It’s important to act promptly, as timelines in Vermont law are strict.

FAQ: Vermont Abandonment Rules for Renters

1. How long must my landlord keep my belongings after I move out?
   Vermont landlords must store your property for at least 60 days and must make a reasonable attempt to notify you. After 60 days, unclaimed property can be sold or discarded.
2. Will I have to pay to get my things back?
   You may be asked to pay reasonable storage and moving costs before your landlord returns the items.
3. What if my landlord throws away my stuff without notice?
   If your landlord does not follow state law, you may have the right to file suit for damages. Gather documentation and contact the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division for next steps.
4. Does Vermont have a specific form for abandoned property notices?
   No. Landlords are required to send written notices but there is no official state form. Notices should include details on how to reclaim items and storage costs.
5. Who do I contact if there is a dispute about abandoned property?
   You can reach out to the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division for assistance with rental disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont law protects renters’ left-behind property with a clear process and timeline.
• Always provide a mailing address to your landlord when moving out.
• Unclaimed property can be disposed of after 60 days, so respond to notices quickly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (full legal text)
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division (for filing a dispute or claim)
• Vermont Legal Aid – Tenants’ Rights & Housing Help
• Vermont Department of Housing & Community Development

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1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 9, Section 4469
2. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act
3. Vermont Superior Court Civil Division (Residential Rental Disputes)

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