Rhode Island Security Deposit Law
Rhode Island landlords must return security deposits within 20 days under R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19. Violations result in damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount.
Key Facts — Rhode Island
- Return deadline
- 20 days after move-out
- Governing statute
- Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-19
- Short citation
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19
- Penalty for violation
- damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount
- Small claims court limit
- $2,500
Generate your demand letter
We generate a formal security deposit demand letter citing R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19 with the exact penalty language. Most landlords respond within 14 days of receiving a formal letter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Rhode Island?
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19, a Rhode Island landlord must return the security deposit — along with an itemized list of any deductions — within 20 days of the tenant vacating the property.
What happens if a Rhode Island landlord keeps my deposit illegally?
If your landlord fails to return the deposit within 20 days without a valid reason, damages up to 3× the wrongfully withheld amount. You can pursue this in Rhode Island small claims court (limit: $2,500).
Can a landlord in Rhode Island deduct for normal wear and tear?
No. Rhode Island law, like all US states, prohibits landlords from deducting for normal wear and tear — routine scuffing, minor carpet wear, and faded paint are the landlord's cost of doing business, not the tenant's.
How do I send a security deposit demand letter in Rhode Island?
Generate a demand letter citing R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19, sign it, and send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt to your landlord. The certified mail receipt creates a legal paper trail and proves delivery. Give the landlord 14 days to respond before filing in small claims court.
Tenant rights tips — free
Security deposit guides, landlord dispute tactics, and more. One email per week.