Vermont renters insurance and security deposit guide

Short answer: Vermont's recent floods showed that renters' belongings usually aren't covered for flood under a standard renters policy, and your landlord's policy covers only the building. Under 9 V.S.A. §4461, the landlord must return the security deposit with a written itemized statement of deductions within 14 days after you vacate, as long as they had notice of your move-out date. For seasonal rentals that aren't a primary residence, the deadline is 60 days. If the landlord misses the 14-day deadline, they forfeit the right to keep any of it.

This guide is general information for Vermont renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.

Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.

Step 1: Flood is the big gap

Standard renters policies generally exclude flood. Renters can buy NFIP contents coverage through FloodSmart. Ask your agent about sewer and drain backup coverage, which is a separate endorsement.

Step 2: What a deposit can cover

Under 9 V.S.A. §4461, a security deposit is any refundable advance, deposit or prepaid rent. The landlord may keep part of it for nonpayment of rent, damage beyond normal wear and tear, and certain other charges listed in the statute.

Step 3: The 14-day return

• The landlord must return the deposit with a written statement itemizing any deductions within 14 days from the date you vacated (if the landlord had notice of that date) or the date the landlord discovers you vacated or abandoned the unit.
• For seasonal rentals not intended as a primary residence, the deadline is 60 days.
• Hand delivery or mail to your last known address counts. Give a forwarding address.
• If the landlord fails to return the deposit with a statement within 14 days, they forfeit the right to withhold any portion. A willful failure makes them liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs.

Step 4: Winter claims

Frozen pipes and ice dams are common. Renters insurance typically covers your belongings for sudden water damage from inside the building.

Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Vermont.

Frequently asked questions

Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.