Vermont Rules for Rent Increases During a Lease

If you're renting in Vermont, you may wonder if your landlord is allowed to raise the rent while your lease is still active. Understanding your rights under Vermont law helps you protect yourself from unexpected or unlawful rent changes.

Can a Landlord Raise Rent During a Lease in Vermont?

In Vermont, landlords cannot raise rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless the lease agreement specifically allows it. This means if you have a lease for a set period (for example, one year), your rent cannot be increased until the lease expires, unless you and your landlord both agree in writing to a change.

• Fixed-term tenancy (e.g., 1-year lease): Rent amount is locked in for the term unless both parties agree to amend.
• Month-to-month tenancy: Landlords may increase rent, but only with proper written notice.

These rules are set out in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act.^[1]

Required Notice for Rent Increases

If you rent month-to-month, your landlord must give you at least 60 days' advance written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This notice must include:

• The amount of the new rent
• The date the increased rent will begin

Notices are usually provided using a standard written letter. There is no official statewide government form in Vermont for rent increase notices, but the sample Rent Increase Notice provided by the Vermont Department of Health offers a useful template for landlords.^[2]

What If Your Landlord Tries to Raise the Rent Illegally?

If your landlord tries to raise your rent during a fixed-term lease without your written agreement, this is not allowed under Vermont law. You can:

• Notify your landlord in writing that the increase is not permitted by your lease or by state law
• If the issue is not resolved, you can contact the Vermont Attorney General's Consumer Assistance Program or consult with the local mediation board if available

In most cases, written communication can resolve misunderstandings. If you need to make a formal complaint, keep copies of all correspondence.

Residential Tenancies Tribunal in Vermont

Vermont does not have a dedicated landlord-tenant board or tribunal. Disputes are generally handled in your local Vermont Civil Division of Superior Court.^[3]

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Sample Rent Increase Notice: View form here. Landlords may use this letter to notify tenants in writing about a rent increase for a month-to-month tenancy. Example: Your landlord provides you a letter like this stating your rent will rise in 60 days.
• Vermont Consumer Complaint Form: Submit online form. Use this form to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s office if you believe your rent is being increased unlawfully or your landlord is not following the proper notice procedures.

For any legal action or dispute, you may also need to file documents at your local Superior Court Civil Division. See the Vermont courts' official forms directory for eviction and related forms.

Key Takeaways on Vermont Law

• Landlords cannot raise your rent mid-lease unless your written agreement allows it.
• Month-to-month tenants must get at least 60 days' advance written notice.
• Unlawful rent increases can be reported through Vermont's official complaint systems.

Always check your lease and keep written records of any notices or correspondence for your protection.

FAQs About Mid-Lease Rent Increases in Vermont

1. Can my landlord raise my rent before my lease ends?
   No, unless your lease agreement states otherwise and you agree in writing. Most fixed-term leases in Vermont lock in your rent amount until the end date.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
   For month-to-month tenants, landlords must give at least 60 days' written notice before the new rent begins.
3. What if my landlord tries to raise the rent without notice?
   This is not allowed under Vermont law. You should communicate with your landlord in writing and may contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program if the issue is not resolved.
4. Where can I resolve a rental dispute in Vermont?
   Most residential tenancy disputes go to the Vermont Superior Court's Civil Division.
5. Is there a rent control board in Vermont?
   No, Vermont does not have statewide rent control or a dedicated landlord-tenant tribunal. Local courts and the Attorney General's office handle most disputes.

Conclusion: Know Your Vermont Rent Increase Rights

• Vermont law protects renters from mid-lease rent hikes unless both parties agree in writing.
• Proper notice is required for rent increases in month-to-month situations (60 days).
• If you believe your rights are being violated, use official complaint forms and state resources for help.

Rereading your lease and acting promptly are the best ways to safeguard your rental rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Attorney General – Consumer Assistance Program: For complaints about rental issues or unlawful rent increases.
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division: For handling rental disputes and legal actions.
• Vermont State Housing Authority: Provides renter resources and housing assistance programs.
• Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity – Renter Resources: Information and advocacy for tenants.

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. Chapter 137
2. Sample Rent Increase Notice, Vermont Department of Health
3. Vermont Superior Court Civil Division – Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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