Vermont Security Deposit Deadline (14-Day Rule)
Vermont generally uses a 14-day rule for security deposits.
The key detail is the trigger, and written notice of your vacate date can make that trigger much cleaner.
The deposit and any written itemized deductions are due within 14 days after the landlord discovers you vacated or abandoned the unit, or your vacate date if the landlord received notice of that date.
Do Not Count Only From Move-Out
Vermont's statute uses two related timing ideas:
- when the landlord discovers the tenant vacated or abandoned the unit
- the tenant's vacate date, if the landlord received notice of that date
That is why proof of notice can matter. Tell the landlord your vacate date in writing, keep a copy, and save proof that it was sent or received.
What the Landlord Must Provide
If deductions are taken, the landlord should provide a written itemized statement together with any amount due back to the tenant. Vermont allows delivery by hand delivery or mailing to the tenant's last known address, so keep your mailing/contact address record clean.
If you only get a vague number, a partial refund with no explanation, or no accounting at all, that is a problem.
What If the Deadline Is Missed?
If a landlord fails to return the deposit with a statement within 14 days, Vermont law says the landlord forfeits the right to withhold any portion of the deposit.
If the failure is willful, Vermont law can make the landlord liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs.
That makes the timeline, vacate-date notice, written itemization, deductions, and refund balance the facts to organize first.
Seasonal Occupancy
Vermont has a separate 60-day rule for seasonal occupancy and rental of a dwelling unit not intended as a primary residence.
If your rental was an ordinary primary residence, the 14-day rule is usually the rule to understand first.
Do not mix the two timelines together. The seasonal branch is for seasonal occupancy and rental of a dwelling unit not intended as a primary residence.
What To Do Next
If the deadline has passed:
- confirm the trigger date
- gather your lease, photos, vacate-date notice, possession/key return proof, and messages
- review any deductions
- send a clear demand letter
Related Pages
Important
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice.