Bill > H0399

This bill provides comprehensive protections and rights for tenants in Vermont, addressing multiple aspects of rental housing. It requires written rental agreements with specific details for tenancies lasting 12 months or longer, prohibits charging rental application fees, and restricts landlords from requesting Social Security numbers during the application process. The bill limits no-cause evictions by requiring longer notice periods and establishing specific circumstances under which such evictions can occur, such as owner or family occupancy or significant renovations. It also caps annual rent increases at one percent above the Consumer Price Index or five percent, whichever is less, and mandates 90-days' notice for rent increases. The legislation creates a statewide rental housing registry to collect detailed information about rental units, establishes an Office of Tenant's Rights Advocate to provide education, mediation, and legal services, and provides tenants with the right to counsel in eviction proceedings. Additionally, the bill allows for the expungement of eviction records under certain conditions and adds citizenship and immigration status to existing anti-discrimination protections. To support tenant home ownership, the bill creates a Tenant Right to Purchase Down Payment Assistance Program with $5 million in funding, enabling tenants and nonprofit organizations to purchase their rental properties. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and represents a significant expansion of tenant protections in Vermont.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.399