Rhode Island Bedbug Disclosure Rules for Apartment Renters

As a renter moving into a Rhode Island apartment, protecting your health and comfort is important. Bedbug issues can be disruptive and costly, so it's vital to know whether your landlord must disclose bedbug infestations and what steps to take if you suspect a problem. This article explains Rhode Island's bedbug disclosure rules, your rights, and how to get help if bedbugs are found in your apartment.

Rhode Island Laws on Bedbug Disclosure

Rhode Island protects renters from unsafe and unhealthy living conditions, including bedbug infestations. However, as of 2024, Rhode Island law does not require landlords to proactively issue a bedbug disclosure form before you sign a lease. Instead, the focus is on habitability requirements and prompt action if bedbugs are discovered.

• Landlords must maintain rentals in a habitable condition under the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
• If a renter suspects bedbugs, it's their right to notify the landlord promptly.
• Once notified, the landlord is responsible for addressing and eradicating the infestation.

What Must Landlords Disclose?

As of this year, there is no specific bedbug disclosure form required by Rhode Island law at move-in. But, if the unit is known by the landlord to be infested with bedbugs, it is a breach of habitability and must be remedied. This is enforced through general health and safety provisions in Rhode Island’s landlord-tenant legislation.

Key Legislation and Enforcement

• The main law governing landlord responsibilities is the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 34, Chapter 18).¹
• Complaints about unsafe conditions can be brought to the Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant.²

What Renters Should Do If Bedbugs Are Discovered

If you spot signs of bedbugs in your rental, take these steps to protect yourself and prompt a quick resolution.

• Document the problem: Take clear photographs and note the dates you noticed signs of bedbugs.
• Notify your landlord immediately in writing. Written notice creates a clear record of your report.
• Allow the landlord access to inspect and treat the unit.
• If the issue is not resolved promptly, you may file a complaint with the local code enforcement office or explore options through the District Court landlord-tenant process.

Relevant Official Forms

• Notice of Breach – Habitability Rights (No Official Form Number):
  • This written notice informs your landlord about a serious maintenance issue, such as a bedbug infestation.
  • How it's used: Write a dated, signed letter stating the issue, keep a copy for yourself, and send it to your landlord via mail or email. For example, if you find bedbugs within a week of moving in, you should immediately send this notice.
  • No standardized statewide form exists, but you can review guidance from the Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant Information Page.
• District Court Complaint for Repairs (Form DC-53):
  • Used if the landlord fails to fix severe problems like bedbugs after written notice.
  • How it's used: After giving your landlord written notice and a reasonable time to repair, you may file this complaint with the district court. For example, if weeks pass without action, you can complete Form DC-53 and start a case.
  • Get the official form and filing instructions at the Rhode Island Judiciary Forms Portal.

Enforcement: Rhode Island's Residential Tribunal

Disputes about repairs or habitability, including bedbug problems, are handled by the Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant division. This tribunal hears cases from both tenants and landlords and can order repairs, rent reductions, or other remedies as provided in state law.²

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Rhode Island landlords required to disclose prior bedbug issues?
   Rhode Island law does not explicitly require landlords to disclose a property's bedbug history before move-in. However, they must ensure the apartment is habitable and free of known infestations.
2. What should I do if I discover bedbugs shortly after moving in?
   Notify your landlord in writing right away. The landlord must address and resolve the problem promptly under habitability laws.
3. Is there an official bedbug disclosure form in Rhode Island?
   No, there is no official statewide bedbug disclosure form. Use a written notice or letter to inform your landlord if you encounter a bedbug problem.
4. Who resolves rental disputes about bedbugs in Rhode Island?
   The Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant division handles disputes about repairs and rental conditions, including bedbugs.
5. Can I break my lease because of bedbugs?
   Potentially, if the landlord fails to address a serious bedbug infestation, you may have grounds for lease termination under habitability laws, but you should first try official complaint procedures before moving out.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Rhode Island does not require landlords to provide a bedbug disclosure form, but they must keep rental housing habitable.
• If you suspect bedbugs, act fast: notify your landlord in writing, and document everything.
• Unresolved issues can be taken to the District Court using official forms like the Complaint for Repairs.

Staying informed and organized can help renters address bedbug concerns promptly and protect their health.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant: Guidance on tenant rights and complaint procedures
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Official state legislation on rental rights
• Rhode Island Housing: Renters Resources: Programs and advice for renters
• Rhode Island Department of Health: Bedbugs: Prevention tips and health information

---

1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Rhode Island District Court – Landlord and Tenant

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations