Vermont Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Security Protections

If you’re a renter in Vermont facing domestic violence, understanding your rights can help keep you safe and protect your housing. Vermont state law gives tenants experiencing abuse important protections when it comes to locks, leases, and emergency assistance. This guide covers how Vermont renters can use these laws and official forms to take action—so you can focus on finding safety and support.

Domestic Violence Protections for Vermont Tenants

Vermont offers multiple legal safeguards for renters experiencing domestic violence. These laws make it easier for survivors to change locks, terminate a lease early, and prevent retaliation from landlords. The main goals are to help tenants stay safe without risking their housing or financial stability.

Your Rights as a Vermont Renter Experiencing Domestic Violence

• Requesting Lock Changes: You can request in writing that your landlord change your locks. If you provide a court order or a police report, the landlord must act promptly (usually within 48 hours).
• Early Lease Termination: Vermont law lets you end your lease early if you or your child is a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault. You must give proper written notice and attach documentation.
• Protection from Retaliation: Landlords may not retaliate against you for seeking help due to domestic violence, such as calling the police or using these protections.

These rights are detailed in the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. § 4462-4463), which outlines tenant protections and responsibilities.

How to Request a Lock Change

Tenants who are victims of domestic violence can ask their landlord to change the locks for added security. To do this effectively:

• Make a written request to your landlord as soon as possible.
• Attach a copy of any restraining order (relief from abuse order), or a police report documenting domestic violence or stalking.

After receiving your request, your landlord must change the locks within 48 hours or sooner in urgent situations.

Required Documentation

• Relief from Abuse Order (Form 800-00023): This court order can be obtained if you are in immediate danger. Use it as proof to request lock changes or early lease termination. Apply to the Vermont Superior Court Family Division in your county. Download the Relief from Abuse Order Application.
• Police Report: If the police have responded to a domestic violence incident, request a copy of the report to use as supporting documentation.

Ending Your Lease Early Due to Domestic Violence

If staying in your rental unit is unsafe, Vermont law allows you to break your lease with proper notice:

• Give your landlord at least 30 days’ written notice stating you are terminating the lease due to domestic violence.
• Attach either a Relief from Abuse Order (Form 800-00023) or a police report to your notice.
• You are only responsible for rent up to the effective date of early termination.

Using these steps can help prevent eviction and minimize financial impact while you seek safety.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant-Landlord Disputes in Vermont?

The Vermont Superior Court - Civil Division oversees residential tenancy matters, such as eviction or enforcement of rental rights. If you need to resolve a serious dispute, you can start here for official processes and forms.

Official Forms for Vermont Renters Experiencing Domestic Violence

• Application for Relief from Abuse Order (Form 800-00023): Used to request a court order for protection against abuse. Submit this at the Family Division of your Superior Court. Download and instructions here. Example: Jane applies for a Relief from Abuse Order after an incident and uses her copy to request a lock change from her landlord.
• 30-Day Written Notice of Lease Termination: There is no specific state-issued form. Write a letter stating you are ending your lease due to domestic violence, include the effective date, and attach the documentation (court order or police report). Deliver it to your landlord in person or by certified mail. Example: Sam writes this letter, attaches his police report, and provides it 30 days before his intended move-out date.

Summary

Vermont renters affected by domestic violence have the right to immediate lock changes, early lease termination, and protection from landlord retaliation. Keeping clear records and using official documents is key to exercising your rights. If you need extra help, state resources and the courts are available to support you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord refuse to change the locks if I provide a court order?
   No. Vermont law requires landlords to change the locks within 48 hours once you provide evidence such as a court order or police report.
2. Do I have to pay extra fees for the lock change?
   Generally, the landlord may charge you for the actual cost of changing the locks, but cannot add unreasonable fees or penalize you for making the request.
3. Will my roommates be affected if I terminate the lease early?
   If you are the sole leaseholder, your termination ends the agreement. If others are on the lease, they may need to negotiate separately or the lease may continue for them.
4. Can I use a police report instead of a court order?
   Yes. Either a police report or a Relief from Abuse Order is accepted as documentation for lock changes and early termination of lease under Vermont law.
5. Where can I get help filling out the Relief from Abuse Order form?
   You can visit your county’s Superior Court or contact the Vermont Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence for guidance and support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Superior Court - Civil Division (landlord-tenant disputes)
• Vermont Department for Children and Families - Housing (rental assistance & emergency housing support)
• Vermont Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence (advocacy & legal resources)
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (tenant legal protections)

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act, 9 V.S.A. § 4462-4463
2. Vermont Relief from Abuse Order Application (Form 800-00023)
3. Vermont Superior Court - Civil Division

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