Common Questions Landlords Ask in Rhode Island

Kristen Hrabcsak
Aug 30
4 min read

Landlords in Rhode Island inevitably face recurring challenges whether they manage their own single family rentals in Warwick, multi-unit buildings in Providence or several investment properties across the state. Many landlords share the same concerns with ongoing responsibilities like maintenance and tenant laws. At The Hennessy Group, we work with landlords across Rhode Island daily, helping them find clarity, reduce risk, and maximize rental income. Below, we’ve rounded up the most common landlord questions about property management in Rhode Island and how we help answer them.

1. What Are My Responsibilities for Property Maintenance?

One of the top common landlord questions we hear is: “What exactly am I responsible for fixing in my rental property?”

Under Rhode Island landlord-tenant law, landlords must maintain safe and habitable housing. This includes:

Heat, plumbing, and hot water
Electrical systems
Roof, windows, and structural integrity
Compliance with health and safety codes

Client Story: A Warwick landlord came to us after a tenant filed a complaint about a broken heating system in January. They weren’t sure if it was their responsibility or the tenant’s. We clarified the legal obligations and coordinated licensed contractors to get the job done. We repaired the issue within 48 hours which kept the tenant happy and helped the landlord avoid costly fines.

2. How Much Can I Charge for a Security Deposit?

Another frequent question is about security deposits. Rhode Island law caps the security deposit at one month’s rent, and it must be returned within 20 days of the tenant moving out, minus any legitimate deductions.

Client Story: A Providence landlord had been in legal trouble before due to holding onto deposits for over 30 days. The landlord was too busy to stay on top of their security deposits and often missed the 20 day requirement. After hiring The Hennessy Group, we updated their lease agreements, implemented our own security deposit system, avoided legal disputes, and built better trust with tenants.

Hiring a local property manager in Rhode Island is important for various reasons including in-depth knowledge of Rhode Island Landlord-Tenant Laws.

3. How Do I Handle Late Rent Payments?

Late rent is a universal headache for landlords. Many ask, “How quickly can I start the eviction process in Rhode Island?”

Rent is legally due on the date specified in the lease.
Landlords can issue a 5-day demand notice if rent is late.
If unpaid, eviction proceedings can begin after that period.

Client Story: A Cranston landlord had tenants who consistently paid 10-15 days late. Not wanting to deal with the lengthy eviction process, they realized it was time to hire a property management company in Rhode Island. We started by serving proper notices and being firm on payments. We then implemented our tenant screening process to ensure that qualified tenants would be placed in the vacant units.

Trying to figure out if hiring a property management company is right for you? Click here to find out how much property management costs in Rhode Island.

Can I Enter My Rental Property Without Notice?

Landlords often wonder, “Can I check on my property whenever I want?” The answer is no. Rhode Island requires landlords to give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering a unit, except in emergencies.

How Do I Raise Rent Legally in Rhode Island?

Many landlords ask about increasing rent fairly and legally. Rhode Island does not have rent control, but landlords must give proper notice:

30 days’ notice for month-to-month leases
Follow lease renewal terms for fixed-term leases

Client Story: A landlord in East Greenwich wanted to increase rent by 12% but was worried about backlash. We helped them conduct a market analysis, set a competitive rate, and deliver proper notice. The tenants accepted the increase without dispute.

Apartment building in Rhode Island managed by The Hennessy Group.

6. What Happens If a Tenant Breaks Their Lease?

Landlords often ask, “Am I stuck with the loss if a tenant breaks the lease early?”

By law, landlords must make reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit, but tenants may still be responsible for rent until a new tenant is found.

Client Story: A Pawtucket landlord had tenants break a lease mid-year. We listed the property quickly, screened new tenants, and had it re-rented within two weeks, minimizing income loss.

How Can Property Management Help?

Managing tenants, leases, and legal compliance can be overwhelming. Many landlords eventually ask the most important question: “Should I hire a property manager?”

At The Hennessy Group, we:

Handle tenant communication and screening
Coordinate repairs and maintenance
Ensure compliance with Rhode Island landlord-tenant laws
Provide financial reporting and rent collection
Help landlords avoid costly legal mistakes

Client Story: An investment property owner in Providence came to us after struggling to keep up with tenant calls and maintenance issues. Within three months of hiring us, their rental income stabilized, tenant satisfaction improved, and the landlord regained valuable time.

Final Thoughts on Landlords Common Questions

Landlord responsibilities in Rhode Island can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. By understanding the answers to these common landlord questions, you’ll be better prepared to protect your investment and build lasting tenant relationships.

At The Hennessy Group, we specialize in supporting landlords across Rhode Island with expert property management services. Do you own a single rental? Do you have a portfolio of properties? We’ll help you stay compliant, profitable, and stress-free.

Ready to get answers to your landlord questions? Contact The Hennessy Group today for a personalized property management proposal.