Vermont Tenant Rights for Short-Term Vacation Rentals

If you’re renting a home or apartment as a short-term vacation rental in Vermont, it’s important to understand how your rights differ from long-term tenants. Vermont laws are designed to protect renters, but certain rules apply specifically to short-term stays. This article guides you through your key rights, the official forms you might need, and where to get help if you run into problems.

Understanding Short-Term Vacation Rentals in Vermont

In Vermont, a short-term vacation rental typically means renting a property for fewer than 30 days at a time. Common examples include booking an apartment or house via platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. Laws and protections for short-term renters can differ from those for year-long leases, so knowing what applies to your situation is crucial.

Are You Considered a Tenant?

Under Vermont law, renters who stay for less than 30 days may not be covered by the same protections as those with a traditional lease. The Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act covers most rental situations but excludes “transient occupancy,” such as hotels, motels, and vacation rentals occupied for less than 30 days.[1]

  • Stays over 30 days: You are likely considered a tenant and protected under the Act.
  • Stays under 30 days: You may have fewer formal protections, but basic consumer rights still apply.

Tip: Always check the duration of your agreement and ask your host or agency about your rights as a guest or tenant.

Your Rights in a Short-Term Rental

  • Right to a safe, habitable space: Owners must ensure the property is safe and fit for occupation.
  • Right to peaceful enjoyment: Even short-term renters should not face unnecessary disturbance.
  • Right to accurate disclosures: All costs, fees, and terms must be clear in your rental agreement or booking.
  • Right to a return of deposit: If a deposit is required for a stay over 30 days, it must be returned minus valid deductions as per state law.

What Happens if a Dispute Arises?

If something goes wrong (e.g., unsafe conditions, unauthorized entry, or sudden cancellation), first try to resolve it with the owner or platform. For unresolved issues, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office Consumer Assistance Program can help mediate complaints about short-term rentals and help you understand your options.

Ad

Official Forms for Short-Term Rental Disputes

While most vacation rental disputes do not require special state forms, renters can use select resources for complaints and legal claims.

  • Vermont Consumer Complaint Form
    When to use: If you encounter misleading advertising, unsafe accommodation, or unfair withholding of deposits, fill out this form with the Attorney General’s Office.
    Submit a Vermont Consumer Complaint
    Example: If your short-term rental is uninhabitable and the owner won’t refund your payment, submit this form for help resolving the dispute.
  • Small Claims Complaint Form (Vermont Judiciary Form 900-00102)
    When to use: When monetary damages (up to $5,000) are involved, such as a wrongly withheld deposit, file this form in your local civil division.
    Download Small Claims Complaint (Form 900-00102)
    Example: If a host refuses to return your deposit after your short-term stay, use this to file a claim in court.

Need to File a Complaint? Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Try resolving the issue directly with the rental owner or platform customer support.
  • Step 2: If unresolved, complete and submit the Vermont Consumer Complaint Form.
  • Step 3: For deposit or financial disputes under $5,000, download the Small Claims Complaint Form, fill it out, and submit it to the civil division of your county Superior Court.
  • Step 4: Follow instructions from the court or Attorney General’s Office for next steps.

Be sure to keep copies of your rental agreement, written communication with the owner, and any receipts or photos as evidence.

The Tribunal Overseeing Residential Tenancies

In Vermont, the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division handles most residential landlord-tenant cases, including small claims for short-term rental disputes.[2]

Relevant Vermont Rental Legislation

Always verify if your specific stay is covered under these laws, as some very short-term or “transient” rentals do not fall under standard tenancy protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Does the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act protect all short-term renters?
    Most short-term rentals (less than 30 days) are considered “transient occupancy” and might not be fully covered by the Act. For stays over 30 days, standard tenant protections usually apply.
  2. What can I do if a short-term rental owner withholds my deposit?
    If your deposit is unfairly withheld after your stay, first try to resolve it with the owner or platform. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and consider a small claims case.
  3. Do I have the right to safe and clean conditions in a short-term rental?
    Yes. While some legal protections differ, all renters and guests are entitled to basic health and safety standards under Vermont law.
  4. How do I file a complaint against a short-term vacation rental?
    Submit the Consumer Complaint Form to the Vermont Attorney General’s Office or pursue a small claims action for financial disputes.
  5. Which court handles disputes for short-term rental issues?
    The Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division, hears rental disputes, including those involving short-term stays and small claims.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Short-Term Renters

  • Know the length of your rental—stays over 30 days have more protections than true short-term or vacation stays.
  • Use the Vermont Attorney General’s Office and the state judiciary for help with unresolved disputes.
  • Keep detailed records and review all terms before booking a short-term rental.

Being informed helps protect your interests, even for short vacation stays.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act. View the official Chapter 137 text.
  2. Vermont Superior Court: Civil Division. Learn about Vermont Superior Court – Civil Division.
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.