Rhode Island Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, guidelines and advocacy in Rhode Island
What are the late fee regulations in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island law requires that late fees must be clearly specified in the lease agreement and cannot exceed 5% of the monthly rent amount. Late fees cannot be charged until rent is more than 5 days late. The lease must explicitly state the late fee amount and when it will be assessed. Any late fee provision that exceeds these limits is void and unenforceable under Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-11.1.
What are the rules for security deposits in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island law limits security deposits to one month's rent. Landlords must return deposits within 20 days of lease termination and provide an itemized list of any deductions. Security deposits must be held in a separate bank account in Rhode Island, and landlords must disclose the location of this account to tenants. Landlords can deduct for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and other lease violations. If the landlord fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 20 days, they may be liable for double the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney fees under Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-19.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island requires: 1) 5-day notice for non-payment of rent, 2) 20-day notice for lease violations, 3) 30-day notice for month-to-month termination. Self-help eviction is illegal under Rhode Island law. Landlords must obtain a court order through proper legal proceedings. Tenants have the right to cure lease violations within the notice period. The Rhode Island Safe Housing Act provides special protections for victims of domestic violence. Rent withholding is permitted for serious habitability issues after providing written notice to the landlord and allowing reasonable time for repairs.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island law requires landlords to maintain properties in a habitable condition according to the state's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Requirements include: 1) Working plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, 2) Weatherproof structure and proper ventilation, 3) Safe and sanitary common areas, 4) Regular pest control, 5) Compliance with state and local housing codes. The law establishes an implied warranty of habitability. Tenants must provide written notice of repair needs. If landlords fail to make repairs within a reasonable time (typically 20 days), tenants may repair and deduct costs from rent, withhold rent, or terminate the lease, depending on the severity of the issue.
What notice is required for landlord entry in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island law requires landlords to provide at least 2 days' notice before entering a rental unit, except in emergencies. Entry must be during reasonable hours (8 AM to 8 PM unless otherwise agreed). The notice must specify the date and approximate time of entry. Valid reasons for entry include repairs, inspections, or showing the unit to prospective tenants/buyers. Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-26 explicitly outlines these requirements. Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of their rental unit, and repeated violations may constitute harassment. Landlords who violate these requirements may be liable for actual damages and attorney's fees.
What are the rules for rent increases in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, for month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide at least 30 days' written notice before increasing rent. For fixed-term leases, rent can only be increased at the end of the lease term unless the lease specifically allows for increases during the term. While Rhode Island doesn't have state-wide rent control laws, rent increases cannot be retaliatory or discriminatory. The notice must be in writing and delivered to the tenant. Some municipalities may have additional requirements. Providence, for example, has specific regulations regarding rent increases for certain properties. Rent increases during a fixed-term lease are only valid if specifically permitted in the lease agreement.
What are my rights regarding repairs in Rhode Island?
Under Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-22, tenants have the right to: 1) A habitable living space, 2) Written notice to landlord of needed repairs, 3) 20 days for landlord to make repairs. If the landlord fails to make necessary repairs, tenants may: 1) Repair and deduct costs from rent (up to $125 or one month's rent, whichever is greater), 2) Withhold rent until repairs are made (must provide written notice), 3) Terminate the lease if conditions are severely inadequate. The warranty of habitability is implied in every residential lease. Tenants should document all repair requests and maintain records of landlord communications. The law also provides specific remedies for utility shutoffs and other serious violations.
What are Rhode Island's requirements for smoke detectors?
Rhode Island General Laws § 23-28.1 requires working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all rental properties. Requirements include: 1) One smoke detector on every floor, including basements, 2) Smoke detectors outside sleeping areas, 3) Smoke detectors inside each bedroom, 4) Carbon monoxide detectors within 40 feet of sleeping areas, 5) Combination smoke/CO detectors are permitted. Landlords must provide and maintain working detectors, including battery replacement. Annual inspections are required in most municipalities. Tampering with detectors is illegal and may result in fines or criminal charges. Landlords must obtain a fire marshal certificate of compliance before renting the property.
What disclosures are required from Rhode Island landlords?
Rhode Island landlords must disclose: • Lead paint hazards (pre-1978 buildings) with specific state forms • Security deposit terms and banking information • Property manager/owner contact information • Utility arrangements and responsibilities • Known defects or damage • Move-in inspection results • Building code violations • Smoke and carbon monoxide detector certification • Environmental hazards • Flood plain status (if applicable) • History of methamphetamine production (if applicable) • Bed bug infestations within previous 60 days • Energy efficiency ratings • Fire safety systems • Contact information for emergency maintenance • Notice of foreclosure proceedings (if applicable) • Presence of sprinkler systems
What are the rules about security deposit deductions in Rhode Island?
Under Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-19, landlords can deduct from security deposits for: 1) Unpaid rent or utilities, 2) Damage beyond normal wear and tear, 3) Breach of lease terms. Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions within 20 days of lease termination. Security deposits must be returned within 20 days of move-out, minus any legitimate deductions. Tenants should document the unit's condition at move-in and move-out with photos and a written inventory. If landlords fail to follow these requirements, they may be liable for twice the amount wrongfully withheld plus reasonable attorney fees. Security deposits cannot exceed one month's rent and must be held in a separate interest-bearing account in Rhode Island.
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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
