Rhode Island COVID-19 Eviction Protections: What Renters Need to Know

Rhode Island renters are still navigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially when it comes to the risk of eviction. Some emergency protections have ended, but a few key laws and resources remain in place to help tenants. This article covers the latest on Rhode Island's eviction protections and your rights, including how to access official forms and where to seek support if you are at risk of losing your home.

Current Status of COVID-19 Eviction Protections in Rhode Island

While most emergency pandemic protections have expired, Rhode Island still offers important renter safeguards and programs. The state has updated its rental assistance and maintained some court procedures designed to give renters additional notice and opportunities to avoid eviction.

• Temporary pauses on most evictions ended in 2022, but tenants still have the right to legal process before removal.
• Rental assistance is available to qualified renters facing eviction for non-payment.
• The courts continue to encourage mediation and alternative dispute resolution in eviction cases.

Rhode Island rental laws and access to resources can help renters protect their housing. If you are at risk of eviction, act quickly and know your rights under the law.

Key Eviction Protections and Your Rights

Understanding Rhode Island's current protections is crucial if you're worried about eviction:

• Right to Notice: Landlords must serve you with a written eviction notice (such as a “5-Day Demand for Rent” notice) before filing an eviction case in court.
• Legal Process: All evictions for nonpayment of rent or lease violations must go through the Rhode Island District Court.
• Rental Assistance: Tenants experiencing pandemic-related financial hardship may still qualify for rental assistance through the state-run RentReliefRI program (subject to available funds).
• Right to Appear in Court: You have the right to attend your eviction hearing, present your case, and request mediation or payment arrangements.

The Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs these protections. You can read more about your rights in the official legislation here.

Official Forms for Tenants Facing Eviction

If you receive an eviction notice or court summons, the following forms and steps may be important:

• Answer to Eviction Complaint (District Court Form DC-53): If you are summoned to court, you may use this form to respond to the landlord’s complaint. It's used to state your defenses or explain your situation. Find the form and instructions on the Rhode Island District Court website.
  Example: If you receive a court summons for eviction, fill out the Answer form to explain why you disagree or need more time.
• Verification of Rental Assistance Application: Some court hearings may require proof that you have applied for rental assistance. Presenting this document can help delay proceedings while your application is processed. Instructions and documentation are discussed at RentReliefRI.
  Example: If you have recently applied for rent help, bring your application verification to court to show your effort to pay.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

If you are served an eviction notice:

• Carefully read all documents and note the court dates.
• Gather any proof of hardship or attempts to pay rent, such as rental assistance applications or correspondence with your landlord.
• Consider seeking free legal aid or speaking to a tenant resource advocate.
• Attend all court hearings, even if you have found alternative housing or believe you have resolved the issue.

Timely response increases your chances of reaching a solution or gaining extra time to find assistance.

Legislation Governing Evictions and Tenant Rights

• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Eviction - Process in District Court (RI Gen. Laws § 9-23-3)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are any COVID-19 eviction bans still in effect in Rhode Island?
   No, the broad moratoria have ended, but court processes and access to rental assistance remain to help tenants avoid eviction whenever possible.
2. Do I still have to pay rent if I am struggling due to COVID-19?
   Yes, rent remains due. However, you may qualify for rental assistance—apply at RentReliefRI.
3. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice now?
   Read your notice carefully, seek legal help, respond to the summons with the proper form, and attend your court hearing.
4. Can I delay my eviction court case if I am waiting for rental assistance?
   You may be able to postpone your case by providing proof of your rental assistance application to the District Court.
5. Who handles eviction cases in Rhode Island?
   Evictions are handled by the Rhode Island District Court.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• COVID-19-specific bans on eviction have ended, but some rental and court protections remain.
• Always respond promptly to an eviction notice and attend your court hearing.
• Apply for rental assistance if you qualify and bring proof to court.

Understanding your rights and acting quickly can help you stay housed or negotiate more time to resolve payment or other issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court – Evictions: Official court information, forms, and schedules.
• RentReliefRI: State rental and utility assistance program.
• Rhode Island Legal Services: Free or low-cost legal help for qualifying renters.
• State of Rhode Island Official Website: Access to government services and updates.

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1. Rhode Island District Court – Landlord Tenant Information
2. RentReliefRI Program
3. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. District Court Landlord and Tenant Forms
5. Eviction Process Statute (RI Gen. Laws § 9-23-3)

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