When Vermont Landlords Can Raise Rents for Pass-Through Costs

As a renter in Vermont, it's important to understand when your landlord can increase your rent and for which reasons. While Vermont does not have statewide rent control, certain local rules and fair housing laws protect tenants from unreasonable increases. This article will cover pass-through costs—what they are, how they may affect your rent, and how Vermont law governs rent increases due to these costs.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs refer to expenses that a landlord incurs—such as increased property taxes, city utility fees, or improvements to comply with local ordinances—that landlords may sometimes "pass through" to tenants in the form of rent increases. Not all costs are eligible, and approval requirements vary, especially in cities with local rent stabilization rules.

Vermont's Laws on Rent Increases

Vermont does not have a statewide rent control program. Instead, rent increase rules are mostly governed by local municipalities and the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)^[1]. State law requires landlords to give proper written notice before raising rent but does not specify limits on the amount of increase unless local rules apply.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

• Landlords must provide written notice of a rent increase at least 60 days before it takes effect if you have a month-to-month tenancy.
• For fixed-term leases, rent usually cannot be increased until the end of the lease term unless otherwise stated in your agreement.
• Notice must be delivered by hand or by certified mail. If you do not receive proper notice, you may have grounds to object to the rent increase.

Renter tip: Always keep copies of all written notices and correspondence for your records.

Do Landlords Need a Reason to Raise Your Rent?

In most of Vermont, landlords do not need to provide a specific reason for increasing rent unless you live in a city or town with its own rent stabilization ordinance (such as Burlington). However, increases must not be retaliatory or discriminatory under fair housing laws.

Pass-Through Costs: When and How They Apply

Since Vermont has no statewide rule on pass-through costs, local ordinances may govern whether these costs can be passed to renters. Examples of pass-through costs include:

• City-mandated improvements (such as safety upgrades)
• Local property tax increases
• Environmental or public health fees imposed by the municipality

In places like Burlington, there are specific requirements for how and when landlords may pass through these costs as rent increases. Always check your city or town's rental regulations for local guidance.

How to Respond to a Rent Increase Due to Pass-Through Costs

If you receive a notice that your rent will increase because of a pass-through cost:

• Review the notice carefully to ensure it includes the required 60-day lead time and clearly explains the reason (especially for localities with extra protections).
• You may request supporting documentation—such as a copy of the increased tax bill or city fee notice.
• If you believe the increase is unfair or not permitted under your local ordinance, contact your city’s housing office or file a complaint.

Relevant Forms for Vermont Rent Increases

• Notice of Rent Increase (no statewide form; template may be available from your local housing office)
  • When used: Landlords must serve this notice when raising rent. For example, if your lease is monthly and your landlord wishes to raise the rent due to a property tax increase, they must give you at least 60 days’ written notice.
  • Find local Burlington forms and notices here
• Complaint Form (Rental Housing Health Code)
  • When used: If you believe your rent was raised unfairly or in retaliation after filing a complaint about housing conditions, you can submit a complaint to your town/city. For Burlington, use their online complaint form.

Official Tribunal or Board for Vermont Renters

There is no statewide rental tribunal in Vermont. Your local Superior Court handles disputes over rent increases, evictions, and tenancy matters. For Burlington renters, the City of Burlington’s Rental Housing Programs office provides oversight and guidance.

FAQ: Pass-Through Costs & Rent Increases in Vermont

1. Can my landlord raise my rent because of higher property taxes?
   In most of Vermont, yes—landlords can raise rent due to increased costs if they provide at least 60 days’ written notice. Check your local city or town for any extra protections.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?
   For month-to-month tenants, at least 60 days’ written notice is required statewide.
3. Are there limits on how much my landlord can increase the rent?
   There are no statewide limits, but some municipalities may have local rules. Burlington, for example, has rent stabilization ordinances. Always check local laws.
4. What if I disagree with a rent increase notice?
   You can ask your landlord for documentation. If you believe the increase violates local law or was issued in retaliation or discrimination, you can file a complaint with your local housing office or Superior Court.
5. Where can I find help with rent increase disputes?
   Contact your local court, city housing office, or Vermont Legal Aid for advice and support.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont has no statewide rent control, but written notice of increases is required.
• Pass-through costs may justify a rent increase, especially in cities with local ordinances.
• Always review increase notices for accuracy and seek help if you believe your rights are violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont State Housing Authority: Renters – Guidance, housing resources, and contacts.
• Vermont Legal Aid: Renters – Free legal help with tenant-landlord disputes.
• Burlington Rental Housing Programs – Local oversight, notices, and complaint process.
• Vermont Superior Courts – File complaints or disputes related to tenancy.

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)
2. Burlington Rental Housing Programs Ordinance
3. Vermont Legal Aid: Renters’ Rights

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