Vermont Rules on Rent Increases After Accessibility Upgrades

If you’re renting in Vermont and considering — or have requested — accessibility upgrades to make your home safer or easier to use, you might be worried about your rent going up after these changes. Understanding your legal rights can help you avoid unexpected increases and protect your home.

Understanding Accessibility Upgrades in Vermont Rentals

Accessibility upgrades include changes like installing ramps, grab bars, wider doorways, or visual and audible alarms. These upgrades help renters with disabilities live more independently and safely.

Under the federal Fair Housing Act as well as Vermont’s state laws, tenants with disabilities have the right to request reasonable modifications at their own expense, unless the property receives federal funding. In some cases, landlords must allow these changes, provided you restore the unit to its original condition when you move out, if asked¹.

Can Vermont Landlords Raise Rent After Accessibility Upgrades?

If you paid for the upgrades yourself, your landlord generally cannot raise your rent just because the unit is now more accessible². The Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4451–4477) governs these relationships. There’s no law allowing an extra rent hike specifically due to tenant-funded disability modifications. Standard rent increase rules apply instead:

• Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice of any rent increase.
• In Burlington and some other cities, local ordinances may offer extra protections or require additional notice.
• Landlords cannot use accessibility upgrades as a reason to discriminate or evict a renter with a disability.

If the landlord pays for the upgrades (for example, in subsidized or public housing), they may be allowed to spread the cost over several tenants, but only if done fairly and according to lease or program guidelines.

Vermont Law and Rent Increases: Forms and Procedures

Vermont does not require a specific state-issued form for rental increases, but your landlord must provide written notice:

• Written Notice of Rent Increase: This is a standard letter, not an official government form. It must list your current rent, the new rent, and the date the change takes effect. If you receive a notice and believe the increase is related to a disability modification you paid for, consider contacting the Vermont Human Rights Commission.

What If I Believe the Rent Increase Is Unfair or Discriminatory?

You have options. State laws prohibit discrimination based on disability. If you suspect discrimination or retaliation after requesting a modification:

• Contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission to file a discrimination complaint. The process is explained on their official website.

• For federally funded housing, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

If you need help, renters’ advocacy groups can guide you through the complaint or response process.

Your Next Steps in Renting with Accessibility Needs

If you receive a rent increase and believe it’s related to an accessibility modification, consider these steps:

• Review your lease and all rent increase notices.
• Ask your landlord (in writing) to explain the reason for the increase.
• If the increase appears to be related to disability modifications, contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission for advice or to file a complaint.

FAQ: Rent Increases and Accessibility Upgrades in Vermont

1. If I pay for an accessibility upgrade, can the landlord increase my rent? No. In Vermont, if you pay for the upgrade yourself, your landlord cannot raise your rent just because the apartment is more accessible now.
2. Are there official Vermont forms for rent increases? No. Vermont doesn’t require a specific form, but your landlord must give you a written notice with all required details.
3. How much written notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase? Landlords must provide at least 60 days’ written notice before raising your rent.
4. Who oversees tenant rights and disputes in Vermont? The Vermont Superior Court Civil Division handles most rental disputes. The Vermont Human Rights Commission addresses discrimination complaints.
5. What if I think the increase is retaliation for requesting a disability accommodation? Retaliation is illegal under both state and federal law. File a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission or HUD for protection.

Conclusion: What Vermont Renters Should Remember

• Your landlord can’t lawfully raise rent just because you made your home more accessible at your own expense.
• Written notice (at least 60 days) is always required for any rent increase.
• If you suspect discrimination or retaliation, reach out to the Vermont Human Rights Commission right away.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission – For discrimination or retaliation complaints
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division – Handles landlord-tenant disputes
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Fair Housing – File a federal fair housing complaint
• Vermont Department for Children and Families – Rental Assistance Resources

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1. Fair Housing Act
2. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. § 4451–4477

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