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Vermont security deposit law

How much a landlord can charge for a security deposit in Vermont, the deadline to return it after move-out, and the statute that controls — verified June 7, 2026.

Best-effort summary, verified June 7, 2026. Statutes change and often use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the linked statute or a licensed attorney. This is not legal advice.
Maximum deposit
No statutory limit
Return deadline
14 days from when the landlord learns the tenant vacated/abandoned
Controlling statute
No statutory dollar cap. Vermont sets no statewide limit on the deposit amount — but local ordinances may, and the return deadline above still applies. Market practice is typically 1–2 months of rent.

Maximum security deposit in Vermont

No statutory limit (note: some municipalities, e.g. Burlington, cap deposits at 1 month by local ordinance). 14-day return (60-day seasonal) and forfeiture. No state cap; local ordinances may cap (Burlington = 1 month).

Returning the deposit

14 days from when the landlord learns the tenant vacated/abandoned (60 days for seasonal, non-primary-residence rentals); late return forfeits the right to withhold any portion. Read 9 V.S.A. § 4461 for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.

Compare with other states

See the full sortable table in our free security deposit limits by state tool, or jump to another state below.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Vermont?

No statutory limit (note: some municipalities, e.g. Burlington, cap deposits at 1 month by local ordinance). 14-day return (60-day seasonal) and forfeiture. No state cap; local ordinances may cap (Burlington = 1 month). This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (9 V.S.A. § 4461) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.

When must a landlord return a security deposit in Vermont?

14 days from when the landlord learns the tenant vacated/abandoned (60 days for seasonal, non-primary-residence rentals); late return forfeits the right to withhold any portion. See 9 V.S.A. § 4461 for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.

What statute governs security deposits in Vermont?

9 V.S.A. § 4461. The official text is published by the state at https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/137/04461.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.

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Security deposit law in every state

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