RI Rental Laws Every Landlord Should Know

Owning rental property in Rhode Island can be a great investment, but it also comes with serious legal responsibilities. One of the most important parts of Rhode Island property management is understanding RI rental laws so you can protect your investment and ensure a fair, professional relationship with tenants. At The Hennessy Group, we’ve seen firsthand how small oversights in compliance can turn into big headaches. 

RI Rental Laws on Security Deposits

Under Rhode Island law, landlords can collect a security deposit of up to one month’s rent. This deposit must be returned within 20 days of the tenant moving out, along with an itemized list of any deductions.

Client Story: One of our Providence landlords had been managing her duplex on her own. She was unaware of the 20-day return rule and held onto a tenant’s deposit for nearly a month while reviewing damages. The tenant filed a complaint, and she faced a costly penalty. When she partnered with The Hennessy Group, we put systems in place to ensure deposits and paperwork are always handled on time, protecting her from future liability.

RI Rental Laws on Right of Entry

Landlords must provide at least 48 hours’ notice before entering a rental property, and entry is only allowed at reasonable times. Emergencies, of course, are an exception.

Client Story: After signing on as the property management company for a landlord in Warwick, we found out that tenants had complaints about unexpected visits previously by the landlord. He didn’t realize the 48-hour notice requirement was law, not just etiquette. Through our tenant portal, we helped him establish a clear communication process with his tenants, which not only kept him compliant but also improved tenant trust.

RI Rental Laws on Lease Agreements

Rhode Island allows both oral and written lease agreements, but written leases are strongly recommended. A proper lease should clearly outline rent due dates, late fees, property rules, and termination policies. Using The Hennessy Group as your property management in RI means we use professional lease agreements so that there is always written record to back up claims in case of a dispute. 

RI Rental Laws on Repairs and Habitability

Landlords are required to maintain their properties in a safe and habitable condition. This includes functioning heat, plumbing, and electrical systems. Failure to make timely repairs can give tenants the right to withhold rent or even terminate their lease.

At The Hennessy Group, we take the pressure off landlords by coordinating licensed contractors and our in-house maintenance teams. This ensures compliance with RI rental laws while protecting the long-term value of the property.

RI Rental Laws on Evictions

Eviction in Rhode Island follows a strict legal process. Landlords must provide proper notice and file through the district court. Attempting “self-help” evictions, like changing locks or shutting off utilities, is illegal and can result in hefty fines.

We’ve guided several landlords through eviction proceedings, ensuring they were handled legally, professionally, and with minimal disruption. While eviction is always the last resort, knowing the correct steps is critical.

By Screening Tenants in RI, The Hennessy Group finds qualified tenants and therefore helps minimize the need for evictions. 

Final Thoughts

Being a landlord in Rhode Island requires more than just collecting rent, it requires staying compliant with RI rental laws. Knowing about RI rental laws can answer some of the Landlords Common Questions. At The Hennessy Group, we work with landlords across Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and beyond to handle tenant communication, legal compliance, and property management with confidence. A local property manager in Rhode Island like the Hennessy Group understands RI rental laws inside and out, so you remain compliant and avoid costly legal mistakes.

Ready to protect your investment? Contact The Hennessy Group today and let us help you manage your rentals the right way.