Rhode Island Eviction Law at a Glance
State Statute
R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-36 — Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
Notice Periods
- Nonpayment: 5-Day Demand for Rent
- Lease violation: 20-Day Cure or Quit
- Unconditional: 20-Day Notice to Quit
- End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate
Available Defenses
- Habitability (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-22)
- Retaliation (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-46)
- Procedural defects
- Discrimination (Fair Housing Act)
Right to Cure
YES — Tenant has 5 days to pay past-due rent; 20 days to cure lease violations
Self-Help Eviction
PROHIBITED — Landlord must use court process (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-34)
Court & Filing
District Court
Landlord must file eviction action in district court
Complaints: Rhode Island Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit
Additional Protections
- Self-help eviction prohibited
- 20-day cure period for lease violations provides substantial response time
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Rhode Island Eviction Response FAQ
How many days do I have to respond to an eviction notice in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, the response deadline depends on the type of eviction notice: Nonpayment: 5-Day Demand for Rent; Lease violation: 20-Day Cure or Quit; Unconditional: 20-Day Notice to Quit; End of tenancy: 30-Day Notice to Vacate. Missing your deadline can result in a default judgment and forced move-out.
What defenses can I raise against eviction in Rhode Island?
Available defenses in Rhode Island include: Habitability (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-22), Retaliation (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-46), Procedural defects, Discrimination (Fair Housing Act). The availability depends on your specific circumstances.
Does Rhode Island require landlords to give tenants a right to cure?
Yes. Tenant has 5 days to pay past-due rent; 20 days to cure lease violations
Can my landlord evict me without going to court in Rhode Island?
No. Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-34, self-help eviction is prohibited in Rhode Island. Your landlord must file in District Court and obtain a judgment.
What should I include in an eviction response letter in Rhode Island?
Your letter should: (1) identify the notice by date and type, (2) cite R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-36, (3) assert applicable defenses, (4) demand proper legal procedure, (5) state your intent to defend in court, and (6) be sent via certified mail.
Where can I file a complaint against my landlord in Rhode Island?
File complaints with the Rhode Island Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For illegal self-help eviction, contact local law enforcement.
Eviction Response Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.