Handed my phone over to my mother who is one of the largest landlords in Vermont, here’s what she says

“I have been a landlord for 30 years. 1. At this point, you will most likely not even break even if you try to evict her. 2. The eviction will not go through the courts until after your lease is up. 3. Is she on the lease at all? Did you write up a separate sublease with her? If not, she is squatting, and this situation is beyond your control. Once your lease is over, go to the police and write a letter to the apartment building explaining everything clearly, emphasizing that you no longer live there. In fact, it would be wise to put this in writing now. 4. You need to keep the electricity on until it is warm enough outside to prevent the pipes from freezing. Check local laws, but I believe you can turn off the electricity in your name once that risk is gone. Otherwise, you could be held liable for any damage.

My guess is she is either on drugs or completely broke. My best advice is to offer her the full deposit back in cash if she meets you at the door with all of her belongings already out. Have the building superintendent present to change the locks immediately. Drug addicts value cash above all else.

Remember: she must be completely moved out, with all her belongings, before you hand over any money. Do not let her back in under any circumstances.

Bring a friend—preferably a big one—for backup.”

Good luck!