Key Takeaways
- Rhode Island landlord-tenant law is covered in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 34-18)
- Security deposits are limited to one month's rent for most residential tenancies
- Landlords must return security deposits within 20 days of tenancy termination
- Written notice requirements vary based on lease type (month-to-month vs. fixed term)
- Landlords must maintain premises in habitable condition and make necessary repairs
Rhode Island Landlord-Tenant Law
Rhode Island landlord-tenant relationships are governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 34-18).
Security Deposits
Limits and Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum amount | One month's rent (most cases) |
| Interest | Required if held over 6 months |
| Separate account | Must be held separately |
| Written receipt | Required upon receipt |
Return of Security Deposit
| Timeline | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Within 20 days | Return deposit or itemized statement of deductions |
| Allowable deductions | Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear |
| Failure to return | Landlord may be liable for double the deposit |
Important: The 20-day deadline for returning security deposits is strictly enforced. Landlords must provide itemized deductions if withholding any portion.
Lease Requirements
Types of Tenancies
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Fixed-term lease | Set period (e.g., 1 year) with definite end date |
| Month-to-month | Continues until proper notice given |
| Week-to-week | Continues until proper notice given |
Notice Requirements for Termination
| Tenancy Type | Notice Required |
|---|---|
| Month-to-month | 30 days written notice |
| Week-to-week | 10 days written notice |
| Fixed-term | Typically ends on stated date (no notice required) |
Note: Notice periods may be different if specified in the lease agreement.
Landlord Obligations
Habitability Requirements
Rhode Island landlords must maintain the premises in a habitable condition:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Structural | Safe and sound structure |
| Weather protection | Weathertight roof and walls |
| Plumbing | Working plumbing and hot water |
| Heating | Adequate heating facilities |
| Electrical | Safe electrical systems |
| Sanitation | Trash removal access |
| Common areas | Safe and clean |
Repair Responsibilities
| Obligation | Details |
|---|---|
| Essential repairs | Must make within reasonable time |
| Emergency repairs | Must address promptly |
| Notice to enter | Generally 2 days notice for non-emergencies |
| Retaliation prohibited | Cannot retaliate against tenant for complaints |
Tenant Obligations
Basic Tenant Duties
| Duty | Description |
|---|---|
| Pay rent | On time as agreed |
| Maintain cleanliness | Keep unit reasonably clean |
| Use properly | Use premises as intended |
| No damage | Avoid damaging property |
| Comply with codes | Follow health and safety codes |
| Allow access | Permit reasonable access for repairs |
Eviction Process
Grounds for Eviction
| Ground | Description |
|---|---|
| Nonpayment of rent | Most common reason |
| Lease violation | Breach of lease terms |
| Illegal activity | Criminal activity on premises |
| Expiration of lease | At end of term (with proper notice) |
Eviction Procedure
- Notice - Provide required written notice
- Court filing - File complaint if tenant doesn't comply
- Hearing - Court determines if eviction is warranted
- Judgment - Court issues decision
- Execution - Sheriff enforces if necessary
Warning: Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Rhode Island.
What is the maximum security deposit a Rhode Island landlord can require for most residential tenancies?
How many days does a Rhode Island landlord have to return a security deposit after tenancy ends?
How much notice must a Rhode Island landlord give to terminate a month-to-month tenancy?