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Legal Information: Vermont

Housing Laws

Laws current as of July 11, 2024

If my landlord does not change the locks, can I do it?

If your landlord does not change the locks after you ask them to, you may change the locks without the landlord’s prior knowledge or permission, as long as you:

  • ensure that the new locks and the quality of the installation are equal to or better than the quality of the original locks and installation;
  • notify the landlord within 24 hours after the installation; and
  • provide the landlord with the keys to the new locks.1

You are responsible for the costs of the installation and the new locks unless you have agreed otherwise with your landlord.2

1 VT ST 9 § 4473(4)
2 VT ST 9 § 4473(5)

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