Vermont Landlord Tenant Law: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Renting a property in Vermont is a popular option for a number of reasons. However, as a tenant or landlord, it is important to understand the legal framework of renting a property. Knowing the rights and responsibilities of both parties can help avoid disputes arising from misunderstandings. Vermont has specific landlord-tenant laws that govern how both parties interact to ensure everyone is accountable. This article outlines some of the most important aspects of Vermont landlord tenant law.
1. Security Deposits
As a tenant, you are required to pay a security deposit at the beginning of your tenancy. This is to cover any potential damages or unpaid rent at the end of the tenancy. Vermont law requires that landlords provide tenants with an itemized list of damages and charges within 14 days of the end of the tenancy. Failure to do so may entitle the tenant to double the amount of the security deposit.
2. Rent Increase
A landlord can increase rent once a lease has expired. However, the increase in rent must not exceed 15% of the current rent. If a landlord increases rent by more than 15%, the tenant has the right to terminate the lease by giving the landlord 60 days’ notice.
3. Termination and Eviction
A landlord can terminate an agreement and begin the eviction process for a number of reasons. These include:
Non-payment of rent
Violation of a lease agreement
Substantial damage to the property
Creating a serious disturbance
Criminal activity
If a landlord wishes to evict a tenant, they must serve written notice to the tenant, giving them 14 days to remedy the issue. If the issue remains unresolved at the end of the 14-day period, the landlord can file a complaint with the court.
4. Habitability
Under Vermont law, every rental property must be kept in a habitable condition. This means that the property must be structurally sound, have working utilities (including heat) and be free from serious health and safety hazards. If the landlord fails to maintain a habitable property, the tenant can pursue legal action or withhold rent until the issue is resolved.
5. Repairs
A landlord is under obligation to make necessary repairs to the property in a timely manner. The tenant is required to report any issues to the landlord in writing. If the landlord fails to make the necessary repairs, the tenant can either make the repairs and deduct the cost from their rent or seek a court order to have the repairs made.
6. Lease Agreement
A lease agreement is integral to a rental agreement. This is a binding contract between the landlord and tenant. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including rent payments, maintenance, and other pertinent issues. Both parties must adhere to the terms of the lease agreement. Any changes to the lease must be done in writing and signed by both parties.
7. Discrimination
Vermont law prohibits discrimination against tenants based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, or disability. If a tenant feels they have been discriminated against, they can seek legal action against the landlord.
8. Utility Payments
In Vermont, a landlord can require the tenant to pay for utilities, including heat, water, and electricity. Any agreements regarding utility payments must be in writing.
9. Pet Policies
Landlords are free to set their own pet policies. They can require an additional pet deposit or rent for tenants with pets, or they can prohibit pets altogether. However, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants with service animals.
10. Breaking a Lease
If a tenant wishes to break a lease before the end of the tenancy, they should first refer to the lease agreement. If the lease agreement does not contain a provision for early termination, the tenant can give the landlord notice of their intent to terminate the lease. The tenant is still responsible for rent payments until the end of the 60-day notice period or until a new tenant moves in.
Conclusion
Vermont landlord tenant law is designed to ensure a fair and equitable rental environment for both landlords and tenants. As a tenant or landlord in Vermont, it is important to be aware of your rights and responsibilities to avoid disputes. If in any doubt, it is advisable to consult a lawyer experienced in Vermont landlord tenant law. With proper precaution and understanding, the landlord-tenant relationship can be successful and beneficial for both parties involved.
A brief guide to Vermont landlord-tenant laws
Whether searching for a place to reside temporarily or renting out your property, it is important to be aware of all regulations concerning leases. Vermont landlord-tenant law grants both parties certain protections, as well as assigning both additional responsibilities. To be sure your rights under VT landlord-tenant laws are being not taken advantage of, here are some things to be aware of.
Before entering into any rental agreement, Vermont landlord-tenant laws allow you to physically examine the property in question. Make sure wiring and plumbing are in good in condition. If any repairs seem to be needed, you have the right under Vermont landlord-tenant law to request that they be made before you move into the property. Document any such agreement in writing.
To ensure you have guarded yourself under potential future disputes concerning violations of Vermont landlord-tenant laws, all contracts should be as detailed as possible. A rental agreement should detail the amount you will pay in rent, the date on which you will be expected to make your payment, and which party will be responsible for paying utility bills.
Vermont landlord-tenant law prohibits anyone from charging a fee in order to submit a rent application. However, VT landlord-tenant laws allow them to have you fill out a form as a condition of being considered. While Vermont landlord-tenant laws place no limit on what kind of information can be requested, property owners should be aware that doing so may open themselves up to litigation related to discrimination charges.
After assuming tenancy of a property, VT landlord-tenant laws state you must allow a landlord to enter to perform an inspection. However, Vermont landlord-tenant law does not allow a property owner to enter without your permission. Any inspection should be scheduled in advance for a mutually agreeable time and documented in law. Vermont landlord-tenant laws state that you must maintain a reasonable level of cleanliness and safety.
If a property owner is dissatisfied with any aspect of your tenancy, you fail to pay your rent, or you cause a disturbance, VT landlord-tenant laws allow you to be evicted. Property owners may evict people who rent from them for many other causes under Vermont landlord-tenant law. However, they must follow correct legal procedure to do so. For example, it is a violation of Vermont landlord-tenant laws to simply change the locks on your door.
You may wish to detail the steps that will be taken in case of a legal dispute when creating a rental contract, such as attending mediation. Be aware that Vermont landlord-tenant law forbids property owners from inserting clauses into this document that violate your rights, such as forcing you to pay for their legal expenses in case of litigation. Even if you sign such a document, this clause of a contract will be deemed legally invalid under VT landlord-tenant laws.
If mediation sessions do not resolve your differences, you may need to go to small claims or civil court to resolve a violation of your contract or rights under Vermont landlord-tenant laws. You may represent yourself or retain a lawyer to help you understand VT landlord-tenant laws.
