Vermont, like many U.S. states, does not have a statewide rent control law. This means landlords are generally free to raise rent as they wish, but only if they follow proper legal procedures. However, the city of Burlington is an exception, as it has a rent control ordinance that offers stronger tenant protections.
Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, it’s important to understand the current rules about rent increases, notice periods, and lease agreements in Vermont. This guide simplifies the key points.
Does Vermont Have Rent Control?
Statewide: No, Vermont does not have any law that limits how much rent can be increased. However, increases must be reasonable and justified by market conditions or landlord expenses.
Burlington: Yes, Burlington has a rent control ordinance. Rent increases are tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For example, if CPI is 2%, landlords in Burlington can raise rent by a maximum of 2% that year.
Rent Increase Notice Periods
To raise rent, Vermont landlords must give proper written notice:
- Statewide: At least 60 days in writing before the rent increase starts
- Burlington: At least 90 days’ written notice is required
The notice must clearly state the new rent amount and be delivered properly—by hand, certified mail, or as mentioned in the lease. Text or email is not legally valid unless specifically accepted in the lease.
If the correct notice is not given, the rent increase is invalid, and tenants are not required to pay the new amount.
How Much Can Rent Be Raised?
- Vermont Statewide: No percentage cap, but the rent hike must be reasonable
- Burlington: Limited to the CPI-based cap set by the city for that year
Rent increases must be in line with similar properties in the area. Tenants can challenge unfair or drastic increases, especially if not supported by repairs or market trends.
How Often Can Rent Be Increased?
In Vermont, there is no law that limits how frequently rent can be increased. A landlord can raise the rent multiple times a year, as long as they give 60 days’ notice each time (90 days in Burlington).
However, during a fixed lease period (like a 12-month lease), rent cannot be increased unless the lease specifically allows it.
Rent Control in Burlington
Burlington’s rent control law offers stronger protection for tenants:
- Rent increases are tied to CPI, usually around 1–3% per year
- Only one rent increase is allowed per year
- Just cause eviction rules protect tenants from being evicted simply to raise the rent
- Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for exercising their rights
This ordinance helps to keep housing affordable and prevents tenant displacement.
Lease Agreements and Rent Hikes
If there is a fixed-term lease, the landlord cannot raise the rent during the lease period unless the lease clearly allows it.
Example: In a 12-month lease, the rent stays the same for all 12 months. Any increase can only happen when the lease is renewed, and proper notice must be given in advance.
Key Tenant Protections in Vermont
Vermont provides some protections for renters:
- Proper written notice (60–90 days) is required for all rent increases
- Rent must be reasonable based on local market and housing condition
- No mid-lease increases, unless allowed in the lease
- Burlington offers extra protections like rent control and just cause eviction rules
If tenants believe a rent increase is unlawful or excessive, they can contact tenants’ rights organizations or seek legal help.
Landlord Responsibilities
Landlords in Vermont must:
- Maintain safe and habitable housing conditions
- Provide advance notice before entering a unit or raising rent
- Follow the lease terms and Vermont laws
- Return security deposits (with deductions listed) within 14 days after tenancy ends
- Not retaliate against tenants who file complaints or exercise their rights
While Vermont allows landlords to raise rent, there are important rules to follow. Rent increases must be reasonable, and tenants must be given 60–90 days of written notice. Burlington offers additional protections, including rent caps tied to inflation and fair eviction rules.
By understanding the laws and lease terms, both landlords and tenants can avoid disputes and enjoy a fair rental experience. For any serious concerns, it’s wise to contact local housing authorities or legal aid.
FAQ – Vermont Rent Increase Rules
How much can a landlord raise rent in Vermont?
There is no statewide cap, but increases must be reasonable and fair. In Burlington, rent hikes are limited to CPI-based rates.
How much notice is required for rent increases?
Landlords must give at least 60 days notice statewide and 90 days in Burlington.
Can rent be raised during a lease?
No. Rent cannot be increased mid-lease unless the lease clearly allows it with notice.
How often can landlords raise rent in Vermont?
There’s no limit on frequency, but each increase must have a 60-day written notice (90 days in Burlington).
What should tenants do if they get an unfair rent hike?
Tenants can challenge the increase, contact local housing support, or speak with a tenant rights attorney.
Is email or text a valid rent increase notice?
No. Notice must be written and delivered properly, such as by certified mail or hand delivery.