Vermont Utility Shutoff Protections for Renters

If you rent a home or apartment in Vermont, having utilities like electricity, heat, and water is essential. You may wonder what rights and protections you have if your landlord or a utility company threatens to shut off these vital services. Vermont has specific tenant protections to help prevent or delay utility shutoffs, especially during certain times of year or due to financial hardship. This article explains your rights, official forms, and steps you can take to keep your utilities running.

Understanding Utility Shutoff Protections for Vermont Renters

Vermont law restricts when and how utility companies can disconnect essential services for tenants. The state also provides options to help renters maintain service if they are struggling with payments. Here’s a summary of your key protections:

• Winter Shutoff Moratorium: Electricity and natural gas utilities regulated by the Vermont Public Utility Commission cannot disconnect residential service from November 1 to March 31 without specific approval. This is intended to keep renters safe during cold months.
• Notice Requirement: Utility companies must provide at least 30 days’ advance written notice before shutting off service for non-payment, except during the winter moratorium.
• Medical Emergency Protection: If you or someone in your home has a certified medical emergency, you may qualify for a postponement of shutoff. Your provider will require a signed medical certification form from your doctor.
• Ability to Take Over Account: If the utilities are in your landlord’s name and at risk of disconnection, renters can often establish their own account to keep service on. Contact the utility company for instructions.
• Payment Arrangements: Utility companies must offer reasonable payment arrangements to help you pay past-due balances over time.

Essential Vermont Legislation and Oversight

The Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC) oversees regulation of electric, gas, and some water services in the state. These utility shutoff protections for renters are set out in the Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 30 - Public Service and the PUC Customer Protection Rules.^1,2

Official Forms for Utility Shutoff Protection

Here are key forms Vermont renters may use to avoid or delay a utility shutoff, with examples based on real situations:

• Medical Certification Form
  When to use: If someone in your household has a medical condition that would be put at risk by loss of service, your healthcare provider can complete the required medical certificate, which you then give to your utility provider. This postpones shutoff for at least 30 days.
  Official Form: Medical Certificate for Utility Shutoff Protection (PDF)
  Example: If a resident uses oxygen at home and faces electricity shutoff, submit the form to the utility to delay disconnection.
• Complaint to the Vermont Department of Public Service (DPS)
  When to use: If you believe a utility company or your landlord is violating utility protections, you can file a consumer complaint with the DPS for mediation.
  Official Online Form: File a Consumer Complaint with the Vermont DPS
  Example: If your landlord threatens to disconnect your utilities without notice, submit an online complaint to DPS.

Steps to Take if Facing Utility Shutoff

• Read any shutoff notice you receive carefully and note all dates and required actions.
• Contact your utility provider immediately to discuss your options. Ask about payment plans or medical certification if applicable.
• If the utilities are in your landlord's name, notify the provider and ask if you can open your own account to maintain service.
• Use the official forms mentioned above as needed to request a shutoff delay or file a complaint.
• Keep records of all communications with your landlord and the utility company.

Being proactive and communicating early greatly increases your chances of avoiding a shutoff.

Vermont’s Tribunal for Utilities and Tenancy Issues

Disputes involving utility shutoffs or landlord-tenant utility obligations are handled by the Vermont Public Utility Commission (PUC) and the Vermont Superior Court (Landlord-Tenant Division) for tenancy issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Utility Shutoff Protections

1. What should I do if I get a utility shutoff notice?
   Contact your utility company right away to ask about payment arrangements or any programs to prevent shutoff. If you have a medical condition in your household, speak to your doctor about completing the Medical Certificate for Utility Shutoff Protection.
2. Can my landlord turn off utilities to force me out?
   No. Landlords cannot disconnect essential utilities to force you to leave. This is considered an illegal eviction under Vermont law.¹
3. Are all utilities protected under the winter moratorium?
   The winter shutoff moratorium covers regulated electric and gas utilities, but may not extend to water, sewer, or unregulated heating sources. Always check with your provider and local government for specifics.
4. Can I start utility service in my name if the landlord doesn't pay?
   Often yes, especially to avoid a shutoff. Contact the utility company and explain the situation. You may need to provide proof of residency.
5. What if my complaint with the utility is unresolved?
   You can file a formal complaint with the Vermont Department of Public Service, and if needed, seek further review through the Vermont Public Utility Commission.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont law protects renters from winter utility shutoffs and against illegal disconnection by landlords.
• Medical emergencies and financial hardship may qualify you for extra protections or payment plans.
• Always act quickly if you receive a notice—use official forms and communicate with agencies promptly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Public Service (Consumer Affairs): (800) 622-4496 – handles utility complaints and renter protection questions.
• Vermont Public Utility Commission: Oversee regulated utility companies and hear disputes.
• Vermont Legal Aid - Housing Help: Free legal advice for qualifying renters.
• Vermont Superior Court Landlord-Tenant Resources: Handles rental disputes.

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1. Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 30 - Public Service
2. PUC Customer Protection Rules

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