Who Must Keep My Home Safe and Healthful?

 Your landlord and you. Vermont landlord and tenant law gives renters the right to live in safe, healthful homes. Your landlord can only rent a home to you if it is healthy and safe when he rents it to you. He must also fix any problems that make it unsafe or unhealthy after you move in. If you cause damage that makes the home you are renting unsafe or unhealthy, your landlord can charge you to fix the damage.

What Does "Safe and Healthful" Housing Mean?

The State of Vermont defines basic health and safety standards for rented homes. All rented homes in Vermont must meet the basic Vermont health and safety rules. Some cities and towns have extra rules. The Vermont rules apply to all rented homes in Vermont. City and town rules are extra rules that apply to your home if the home you rent is in the town or city that made the extra rules. Housing Authorities also have housing health and safety rules. If your rent is subsidized, the Housing Authority health and safety rules apply. These rules are called "Housing Quality Standards" or "HQS." Generally, HQS rules require the same safety standards as Vermont's health and safety rules.