⚓ Rhode Island Eviction Notice Laws

Complete Landlord Guide to Rhode Island Eviction Requirements

📋 Updated for • R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18

Last reviewed: January

⚖️ Rhode Island Has Moderate Tenant Protections

Rhode Island requires a 5-day demand for rent before filing for non-payment. The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act provides balanced procedures. This guide covers requirements under R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18.

Non-Payment Notice
5 Days
📅
Month-to-Month
30 Days
💰
Security Deposit Max
1 Month

📝 Rhode Island Eviction Notice Types

💵

5-Day Demand for Rent

R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-35

⏰ 5 Days

For non-payment of rent, Rhode Island requires a 5-day written demand for rent before filing eviction.

  • ✅ Must be in writing
  • ✅ Must specify amount due
  • ✅ Must give 5 days to pay
📄 Get Free 5-Day Notice Form
🔧

20-Day Notice (Lease Violation)

R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-36

⏰ 20 Days

For material lease violations, Rhode Island requires a 20-day notice to cure or vacate.

📄 Get Free Lease Violation Notice
📅

30-Day Notice (Month-to-Month)

R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-37

📆 30 Days

To terminate a month-to-month tenancy, Rhode Island requires 30 days written notice.

📄 Get Free 30-Day Notice Form

⏱️ Rhode Island Eviction Timeline

StageTimelineNotes
📝 Notice period5-30 days5 days for non-payment
⚖️ Court hearing14-21 daysFrom filing
🚔 Writ execution5-10 daysAfter judgment

Total Timeline: Rhode Island evictions typically take 4-8 weeks for uncontested cases.

🚨 No Self-Help Evictions

Rhode Island prohibits self-help evictions. Only a constable or sheriff can remove tenants after a court order.

🔍 Avoid Evictions with Better Tenant Screening

Comprehensive tenant screening helps prevent costly evictions.

⚖️ Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Rhode Island eviction laws under R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18. Consult a qualified attorney before proceeding.