Vermont Vacancy Decontrol Rules: What Renters Need to Know

Vacancy decontrol rules can be confusing, especially for renters worried about sudden rent hikes or changes in their lease terms. If you’re renting in Vermont, it’s important to know how rent control, rent stabilization, and decontrol processes work, as well as what happens when a unit becomes vacant. This article explains Vermont’s rules using clear language and links to official resources, so you can protect your housing rights with confidence.

Understanding Vacancy Decontrol in Vermont

Vacancy decontrol is a concept where, once a tenant moves out or is evicted, rent restrictions on that unit either no longer apply or reset, allowing landlords to set new, often higher, rental rates. While some states have extensive rent control and vacancy decontrol laws, Vermont does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization. Local municipalities may have some regulations, but these are rare.

What Does This Mean for Vermont Renters?

• Once you leave your rental (through moving, eviction, or other reasons), your unit is no longer subject to any rent restrictions you might have enjoyed under a local rent control ordinance.
• Your landlord can set a new rent for the next tenant at any rate.
• This is called “vacancy decontrol.”

Vermont’s rental laws focus primarily on tenant rights, habitability, eviction, and notice requirements rather than ongoing rent level regulation.^[1]

Are There Any Rent Stabilization Rules in Vermont?

Vermont does not have a statewide system of rent stabilization. Cities like Burlington have debated rent control ordinances, but as of 2024, no localities have implemented enforceable citywide rent control. Always check with your city or town for the latest information.

Your Rights During Lease Renewal or Vacancy

Even without rent control, Vermont renters are still protected by laws that require:

• Reasonable notice of rent increases or non-renewal (at least 60 days for year-to-year leases and 21 days for month-to-month leases)
• Safe, habitable living conditions under the Vermont Rental Housing Health Code
• Proper documentation when ending a tenancy — landlords must provide notice in writing

Key Official Forms for Vermont Renters

• Notice to Vacate (No state form number): Used by a landlord to inform you that your tenancy will not be renewed. Always request written notice. See Vermont landlord-tenant statute guidance for templates and rules.
• Request for Rental Housing Inspection (No form number): Use this if you need an official inspection for habitability concerns. Burlington renters can find the form at Burlington Rental Housing Inspection Program. For other areas, consult your town clerk or code enforcement office.

Always provide copies of any forms or written communications for your records.

Where to Go for Disputes: Vermont Residential Rental Housing Tribunal

Renters in Vermont who experience disputes may contact their local civil court or the Small Claims Division for certain landlord-tenant matters. There is no separate state rent tribunal, but the primary office responsible for rental issues is:

• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development

For legal disputes, you can also visit the Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division for landlord-tenant cases, including those related to rent increases or eviction.

Summary: Vermont’s Approach to Vacancy Decontrol

Vermont law generally allows landlords to set new rents upon vacancy, as there is no statewide or local rent control. While this can mean higher rents for new tenants, renters are still protected by required notice periods, anti-retaliation rules, and habitability standards. Always review official legislation, such as Vermont Statutes Title 9, Chapter 137 – Residential Rental Agreements, for the most up-to-date legal requirements.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there rent control or stabilization laws in Vermont?
   No. Vermont does not have statewide rent control or rent stabilization, but local requirements may apply.
2. What happens to the rent if I move out?
   Once a unit becomes vacant, your landlord can set a new rent for the next tenant, as Vermont allows vacancy decontrol.
3. Does my landlord have to give notice before raising rent?
   Yes. For year-to-year tenants, at least 60 days’ written notice is required. For month-to-month, at least 21 days’ notice.
4. Where do I go if I have a rent dispute in Vermont?
   Contact the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development or your local Civil Division of the Vermont Superior Court for help.
5. Can my landlord raise the rent by any amount in Vermont?
   Yes, as long as proper notice is given and there is no evidence of retaliation or discrimination under state law.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont does not have rent control or rent stabilization laws.
• Landlords may set new rents for vacant units, but notice requirements and anti-retaliation protections apply.
• Seek help from state or city agencies if you have a dispute or need clarification about your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development: Guidance on housing rights and complaints
• Vermont Superior Court, Civil Division: Handles landlord-tenant cases
• Vermont Legal Aid – Housing Division: Free legal help for qualifying renters
• Vermont Statutes Title 9, Chapter 137: Official legislation for residential rental agreements

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1. Vermont Statutes Title 9, Chapter 137 – Residential Rental Agreements

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