What to Know About Evictions in Rhode Island

Evictions in Rhode Island can be one of the most stressful situations a landlord faces. Understanding eviction laws, timelines, and tenant rights is critical to protecting your investment and maintaining professionalism as a landlord.

At The Hennessy Group, we help new property owners to seasoned investors navigate everything from rental agreements in Rhode Island to tenant maintenance requests, so when an eviction becomes unavoidable, you’re prepared to handle it correctly and legally.

Understanding Evictions in Rhode Island

An eviction in Rhode Island is a court ordered removal of a tenant from a rental property. It typically occurs when a tenant violates the lease agreement, most commonly for nonpayment of rent, but also for damage to the property, illegal activity, or refusal to vacate after a lease ends.

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Nonpayment of rent: Rhode Island law allows landlords to begin eviction proceedings if rent is not paid within 15 days of the due date. Chronic Rhode Island late rent issues are often the first sign that something’s wrong.

• Lease violations: Unauthorized pets, excessive noise, or illegal activity can all result in eviction.

• End of tenancy: When a lease expires and the tenant refuses to move out.

• Serious property damage: If the tenant causes harm beyond normal wear and tear.

The Rhode Island Eviction Process (Step-by-Step)

Understanding the process helps prevent mistakes that could delay regaining possession of your property.

1. Serve a Written Notice

   • For nonpayment of rent, the landlord must issue a 5-day demand notice.

   • For other lease violations, a 20-day notice is typical.

2. File for EvictionIf the issue isn’t resolved within the notice period, you must file a complaint with the local District Court.

3. Court HearingA judge will review your case and decide whether the eviction is justified.

4. Writ of ExecutionIf approved, the court issues a writ allowing the sheriff to remove the tenant.

Example: A landlord in Warwick, Rhode Island, had a tenant consistently late on payments. Despite multiple reminders and payment plans, rent was overdue by two months. The landlord followed the 5-day notice procedure, documented communications, and successfully regained possession with the help of a Warwick Rhode Island property management firm to oversee the process.

How to Prevent Evictions Before They Happen

Evictions can be avoided with strong tenant screening and proactive communication.

1. Screening Tenants in RI

Careful tenant screening in Rhode Island can save you time and stress. Check:

• Credit reports

• Rental history

• Employment verification

• References from previous landlords

This step helps you find reliable tenants who pay on time and treat the property respectfully.

2. Clear Rental Agreements in Rhode Island

A solid rental agreement in Rhode Island outlines expectations for rent, maintenance, and conduct. Clarity upfront prevents confusion later.

3. Respond Promptly to Tenant Maintenance Requests

Ignoring tenant maintenance requests can lead to disputes or rent withholding. Proactive maintenance shows professionalism and builds trust, two key factors in preventing eviction situations.

4. Establish Late Rent Policies

Clearly outline how Rhode Island late rent is handled in your lease. Consistency in enforcing deadlines helps maintain boundaries.

5. Work with a Professional Property Management Company in Rhode Island

A trusted property management company in Rhode Island, like The Hennessy Group, can manage tenant relationships, handle maintenance, and ensure compliance with all state laws. We take care of everything from property management emergency repairs in Rhode Island to winter maintenance tips for RI rentals so your property runs smoothly year round.

What Landlords Should Know About Costs and Legal Help

Evictions cost time and money: court fees, lost rent, property turnover, and possibly repairs. That’s why many owners partner with a local property manager in Rhode Island to handle legal procedures efficiently and minimize losses.

At The Hennessy Group, our team provides:

• Legal coordination and court documentation

• Tenant communications

• Lease enforcement

• Property inspections and re-renting support

  
  

How Evictions Differ from HOA or Condo Enforcement

While evictions in Rhode Island apply to landlord-tenant relationships, HOAs and condo associations deal with violations differently. They issue fines, suspend privileges, or place liens, not evictions. This distinction is a key difference between HOAs and condo associations in RI that every property owner should understand.

Partner with The Hennessy Group

If you manage one unit or several, working with a local property manager in Rhode Island makes a world of difference. From rental agreements and tenant screening to maintenance and emergency repairs, The Hennessy Group ensures your properties (and peace of mind) are protected.

Conclusion

Evictions in Rhode Island can be avoided through strong communication, detailed leases, and careful tenant selection. But when eviction is necessary, it’s crucial to follow the correct legal process.

At The Hennessy Group, we help landlords navigate every step with confidence. If you’re dealing with an eviction, or want to put systems in place to prevent one, contact us today to learn how our property management in RI services can help.