Bill H.440 aims to enhance tenant protections in Vermont by clarifying the conditions under which a landlord can terminate a tenancy, specifically addressing no-cause evictions and limiting annual rent increases. The bill amends existing law to prohibit landlords from terminating tenancies without cause unless specific conditions are met, such as the rental unit being part of a small owner-occupied building, requiring significant renovations, or if the landlord intends to occupy the premises. Additionally, it establishes that landlords must provide at least three months' notice and cover reasonable relocation expenses if they terminate a tenancy for no cause. The bill also repeals previous provisions regarding termination for no cause under written rental agreements.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a cap on rent increases, limiting them to a maximum of three percent plus the Consumer Price Index or eight percent, whichever is lower, within any 12-month period. Landlords are required to provide tenants with a 90-day notice before any rent increase takes effect, detailing the amount of the increase and the new rent. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9-137