The Vermont residential lease agreement is a contract between a landlord and tenant that states the terms and conditions under which the lessee may occupy the rented property. The term is generally for one (1) year but can be altered if agreed upon by the parties. The tenant will usually be required to pay a small fee and undergo a credit check through the rental application to make sure that he or she is suitable for a lease.

Once a contract has been signed and the necessary deposits have been given to the landlord, keys and full access to the premises should be granted.

• Vermont Landlord-Tenant Laws – Title 9, Chapter 137 (Residential Rental Agreements)

Security Deposit Laws

Maximum Amount ($) – No maximum; landlords may charge any amount they deem necessary to ensure the tenant’s cooperation with the rental agreement.

Returning – The deposit must be returned within fourteen (14) days from the date the tenant vacates. For seasonal tenancies, the security deposit must be returned within sixty (60) days (§ 4461(c)).

Required Disclosures

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure – If the property was built prior to 1978, the landlord must attach the lead-based paint disclosure and have it signed by the tenant.

Rent Grace Period

Vermont does not impose a grace period. However, case law has shown that landlords can only charge late fees that are necessary to recover losses incurred as a result of the late payment (Highgate Associates, Ltd. v. Merryfield).

Vermont Residential Lease Agreement