9 V.S.A. § ___ § 4471
Definitions
Operative Text
As used in this subchapter: (1) “Abuse” has the same meaning as in 15 V.S.A. § 1101. (2) “Protected tenant” means a tenant who is: (A) a victim of abuse, sexual assault, or stalking; (B) a parent, foster parent, legal guardian, or caretaker with at least partial physical custody of a victim of abuse, sexual assault, or stalking. (3) “Sexual assault” and “stalking” have the same meaning as in 12 V.S.A. § 5131. (Added 2019, No. 48, § 2.)
Vermont law under 9 V.S.A. ch. 137 § 4471 establishes the key definitions that apply throughout the subchapter governing protected tenants. A 'protected tenant' includes not only direct victims of abuse, sexual assault, or stalking, but also parents, foster parents, legal guardians, and caretakers who have at least partial physical custody of such victims. The terms 'abuse,' 'sexual assault,' and 'stalking' carry the specific meanings already defined in other Vermont statutes, ensuring consistency across the law.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under 9 V.S.A. ch. 137 § 4471, landlords and property managers should understand that the definition of 'protected tenant' is broader than just the direct victim — it extends to qualifying caregivers and guardians of victims as well. Operators who are aware of these definitions are better positioned to apply the rest of the subchapter's protections correctly when a tenant raises a claim of protected status. Familiarity with the cross-referenced definitions in 15 V.S.A. § 1101 and 12 V.S.A. § 5131 helps ensure that determinations about who qualifies are grounded in the full statutory framework.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 9 V.S.A. ch. 137 § 4471 defines who qualifies as a 'protected tenant' under Vermont's rental housing law, which can be relevant when asserting rights elsewhere in the subchapter. Tenants who are victims of abuse, sexual assault, or stalking — or who are caregivers with at least partial physical custody of such victims — may fall within this protected category. Tenants who believe they qualify may wish to review the broader subchapter for the specific protections available, and tenant-rights organizations in Vermont can help explain how these definitions apply in various rental situations.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 18, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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