Vermont Student Housing Rights: What College Renters Need to Know

Renting as a student in Vermont comes with unique challenges, from handling security deposits to understanding your rights if renting off-campus. Vermont laws protect student renters, whether in private rentals or university-owned housing. This guide breaks down your rights, responsibilities, and where to seek help.

Understanding Student Renter Protections in Vermont

Student renters in Vermont are protected under the state’s primary law governing tenancies: the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act. This legislation applies to most off-campus housing and protects students living in apartments, houses, or shared accommodations. University-owned housing may have its own processes, but many core protections still apply to students in these residences.

Your Main Rights as a Student Renter

• Right to a Written Lease: Vermont law requires landlords to provide written rental agreements upon request.
• Security Deposit Rules: Landlords may not charge more than one month’s rent as a security deposit. They must return deposits within 14 days after the lease ends, minus lawful deductions.
• Maintenance & Repairs: Landlords must keep the property safe and habitable. This includes working heat, water, and proper locks.
• Right to Notice: Unless you have a written lease, month-to-month tenants must receive written notice of at least 60 days for non-renewal, or 21 days for eviction due to cause (such as nonpayment).
• Protection from Retaliation: Landlords can’t evict or penalize you for reporting code violations or exercising your rights.

Understanding these basic rights makes it easier to address issues before they escalate.

Common Issues for Vermont Student Renters

College and university students often face tight budgets, short-term housing, and roommate complexities. Below are frequent topics and your legal protections:

• Entry and Privacy: Your landlord must give at least 48 hours’ notice (except emergencies) before entering your unit.
• Lease Terms: Even if you sign a group lease, you can be ‘jointly liable’ with roommates. This means you could be responsible if one roommate fails to pay rent.
• Eviction and Termination: Landlords must follow formal legal procedures for eviction, including proper notice.
• Subletting: Check your lease terms before subletting; you often need written landlord consent.
• Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased at the end of your lease term or, for month-to-month arrangements, with at least 60 days’ written notice.

Official Forms for Vermont Student Renters

There are a few key official forms Vermont student renters may need:

• Vermont Small Claims Complaint Form
  • Small Claims Complaint (400-00128)
  • When to use: If your landlord won’t return your security deposit, you can file this form to start a claim in small claims court.
  • Example: If your landlord keeps your deposit, fill out this form and submit it to the court to request the money back.
• Rental Housing Health and Safety Complaint Form
  • Rental Housing Complaint Form
  • When to use: If repairs aren’t made or housing conditions are unsafe, file this form with the Vermont Department of Health.
  • Example: Use this form if you have no heat, mold issues, or broken windows and the landlord hasn’t addressed your requests.

Which Tribunal Handles Student Housing Disputes?

Most rental disputes (including those involving students) are handled by the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, specifically through its landlord-tenant and small claims processes. For health and safety complaints, the Vermont Department of Health responds and can enforce corrective action.
Be sure to document all communications and keep copies of forms and emails for your records.

Action Steps if You Have a Problem

• Raise the issue in writing with your landlord or property manager first.
• If unresolved, contact your university’s student legal services (if available).
• For unresolved repairs or unsafe housing, file a rental housing complaint.
• If seeking money or damages (like a withheld deposit), submit the Small Claims Complaint to the court.

FAQ: Vermont Student Housing Rights

1. Can a Vermont student be evicted during the school year?
   Yes, but only for legal reasons (like nonpayment or lease violations) and following proper notice procedures. Eviction cannot occur without formal court action.
2. How much can a Vermont landlord charge for a security deposit to student renters?
   No more than one month’s rent. The deposit must be itemized and returned within 14 days of lease end, minus lawful deductions.
3. Does Vermont law require a rental agreement for student housing?
   Written agreements are recommended and must be provided upon request, but oral leases can also be legally binding.
4. Are utilities or internet always included in Vermont student housing?
   No. Check your lease terms carefully. Many rentals require tenants to set up their own utilities.
5. What should I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
   Notify your landlord in writing. If still unresolved, file a health and safety complaint with the Vermont Department of Health.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Student Renters

• Vermont law protects your right to safe, reasonably priced, and fair student housing.
• Use official channels—like the Department of Health or Superior Court—if you face serious issues.
• Always keep records of agreements, complaints, and payments to safeguard your rights as a student renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division: Landlord-Tenant – Handles eviction, deposit, and general rental disputes.
• Vermont Department of Health – Renters and Landlords – Report unsafe housing or unresolved repair issues.
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act – Review your full rights under state law.
• Vermont Student Legal Services – Get free student legal advice (if your campus participates).

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act: https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/chapter/09/137
2. Vermont Judiciary, Small Claims: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/court-locations?court-type=33
3. Vermont Department of Health – Rental Housing: https://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/renters-landlords

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