Vermont Tenant Rights: Protecting Families from Discrimination

Families renting in Vermont are protected by state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on familial status. Understanding these rights can help you respond if you or your household members experience unfair treatment related to children, pregnancy, or family composition while renting.

What Is Familial Status Discrimination?

Familial status discrimination means treating renters differently because they have children under 18, are pregnant, or are in the process of securing legal custody of a child. Landlords in Vermont cannot refuse to rent, impose different rules, or evict you just because of your family situation.

• Denying a rental application because the applicant has children
• Setting higher deposits or stricter rules for families
• Advertising a property as "adults only" (except in specifically exempt senior housing)

These protections come from both the federal Fair Housing Act and Vermont’s own Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act.

Your Rights as a Vermont Renter

Vermont landlords must follow the law when renting to families. Your rights include:

• The right to rent a home regardless of whether you have children
• Equal terms, rent, and security deposit as other tenants
• Freedom from restrictive rules that target families (like curfews or strict occupancy limits, unless required by law)

If a landlord singles you out because of your family status, you have the right to take action.

Common Signs of Familial Status Discrimination

• Hearing “children aren’t allowed” or “we prefer adult tenants”
• Landlords limiting your guest or occupancy rights due to your children
• Being offered a different (less desirable) unit because you have kids

How to Take Action: Filing a Complaint in Vermont

If you experience familial status discrimination in your rental search or tenancy, you have the right to file a formal complaint. Vermont’s Human Rights Commission is the official body that investigates housing discrimination cases.

Official Vermont Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire
• How It’s Used: Submit this form to begin an investigation if you believe a landlord has discriminated against you because you have (or expect) children.
• Where to Find: Download the form from the Vermont Human Rights Commission Intake Questionnaire page.
• Example: If your application is denied after mentioning you have two young children, you can use this form to report it to the state.

After reviewing your completed form, the Commission may investigate, mediate, or pursue enforcement under the law. You can learn more about the process and your rights at the Vermont Human Rights Commission’s Fair Housing Rights page.

Vermont Tenancy Legislation Protecting Your Rights

The rights and responsibilities of Vermont renters and landlords are outlined in:

• Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act
• Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

The Human Rights Commission is Vermont’s main housing tribunal for discrimination complaints. For general landlord-tenant disputes (like eviction or repairs), the Vermont Superior Court covers small claims and eviction actions.

FAQ: Familial Status Discrimination in Vermont Rentals

1. Is it legal for a landlord to say “no children” in a Vermont rental listing?
   No. Vermont law bans landlords from rejecting applicants or making rules that discriminate against tenants with children, except for certain senior-only housing.
2. Can a landlord charge higher rent or deposit because I have kids?
   No. Charging more based on your family status is prohibited under Vermont’s fair housing laws.
3. What should I do if I think I was denied a rental for having children?
   Gather any evidence (emails, applications, ads) and fill out the Vermont Human Rights Commission’s Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire to start a complaint.
4. What if my landlord claims occupancy limits prevent families?
   Only occupancy limits set by local laws (not arbitrary landlord rules) are valid. Landlords cannot use overly strict limits to exclude families.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord is treating my family unfairly?
   Contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission for advice and to file complaints. Their services are free and confidential.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• State and federal law protects Vermont tenants from discrimination due to having children, pregnancy, or gaining custody.
• If you face unfair treatment, document what happened and contact the Human Rights Commission for help.
• Official complaint forms and free support are available to ensure your family’s right to housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission: Fair Housing – File complaints, ask questions, and access fair housing resources.
• Housing Discrimination Intake Questionnaire (PDF) – The official complaint form for discrimination cases.
• Vermont Department for Children and Families: Rental Assistance – Help with rental costs and emergency housing.
• Vermont Judiciary: Landlord-Tenant Self-Help – Guidance on rental laws, security deposits, and eviction processes.

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1. Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3619)
2. Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (9 V.S.A. § 4501 et seq.)
3. Vermont Human Rights Commission – Fair Housing Rights
4. Vermont Superior Court

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