Rhode Island Landlord Disclosures Before Move-In

Before moving into a rental property in Rhode Island, landlords are legally required to provide certain important disclosures to renters. These rules help make sure tenants know about conditions, hazards, and their rights—giving you confidence to make informed decisions before signing a lease agreement.

What Rhode Island Landlords Must Disclose Before Move-In

Rhode Island law sets out specific information that must be shared with tenants before they move in. By knowing what you’re entitled to receive, you can ask the right questions and spot any red flags early on.

Required Landlord Disclosures in Rhode Island

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Federal law requires landlords to provide a lead-based paint disclosure if the rental unit was built before 1978. This includes an educational EPA pamphlet and details about any known lead hazards.
  — Learn more about lead safety in Rhode Island housing.
• Identification of Owner & Agents: The written lease or another document must clearly name the property owner, any agents acting for the owner, and provide an address for notice and service of legal paperwork. This helps renters know who’s responsible for repairs or notices. (Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-20)
• Move-In Inspection Report (Optional but Recommended): While Rhode Island doesn’t require a standard move-in inspection form by law, it is strongly encouraged for renters and landlords to complete a written inspection checklist together. This helps document any existing issues and protects your security deposit. Ask your landlord if they provide a form or use your own.
  — View Rhode Island landlord-tenant fact sheets
• Flood Zone Disclosure: If a property is located in a designated flood zone, landlords must notify you in writing before you sign the lease. This helps renters understand insurance and risk. (Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-20.1)

Key Forms for Rhode Island Renters

• Rhode Island Lead Disclosure Form: Used for all homes built before 1978. Landlords fill out and give this form to tenants, who should review and sign before the lease is finalized.
  Official Form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (US EPA)
  Example: Before signing your lease for an older Providence apartment, your landlord presents you with this EPA form and a lead hazard pamphlet. You both sign to confirm receipt.
• Flood Zone Notification: Provided by the landlord if the property is in a designated flood zone. Not a standard form, but must be provided in writing before leasing. To check areas, visit FEMA's official Flood Maps.
• Written Owner/Agent Disclosure: Usually found in your lease agreement, stating who owns and manages your building. Double check that this section is clear and complete.
• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist: This isn’t required by law, but you can find a suggested checklist from RI Housing. Use this at move-in and move-out to help secure your deposit.

Understanding Rhode Island’s Tenancy Law

The main rental law in Rhode Island is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18). It covers everything from leases and deposits to repairs and move-in requirements. Both renters and landlords must follow these rules.

Who Handles Renters’ Rights Disputes in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, the official authority for residential tenancy disputes is the District Court – Landlord/Tenant Division. Tenants or landlords who have disagreements about disclosures, repairs, or deposits take their case here.

What To Do If You Don’t Receive Required Disclosures

If your landlord refuses or forgets to provide legally required disclosures:

• Request them in writing. Keep a copy for your records.
• If the information still isn’t provided, consider seeking renter support or legal aid such as RI Legal Services.
• You may file a complaint or bring the issue to the Rhode Island District Court – Landlord/Tenant Division if unresolved.

Having these disclosures can make it much easier to resolve disputes, especially about security deposits or property damage, when you move out.

FAQ: Rhode Island Landlord Disclosures Before Move-In

1. What do I do if my landlord won’t give me a lead paint disclosure?
   If your unit was built before 1978, you have the right to receive the lead-based paint disclosure and EPA pamphlet. Politely request these in writing—if the landlord won’t comply, contact Rhode Island Housing or consider reporting the issue to the local health department.
2. Is a move-in inspection required by law in Rhode Island?
   No, but it is strongly recommended. Completing one helps protect your security deposit and avoids confusion about property condition at move-out.
3. Do I need flood insurance if I receive a flood zone disclosure?
   No, but the disclosure lets you know your unit is in a higher risk area. You can choose to get renter’s insurance or extra flood coverage for peace of mind.
4. Can I see who owns the building I’m renting?
   Yes. Rhode Island law requires landlords to disclose the name and address of the property owner and any authorized agents in your lease or a separate document.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Landlords must provide lead paint and flood disclosures, as well as owner information, before move-in.
• Move-in inspection checklists aren’t required but are a best practice for deposit protection.
• If disclosures are missing, request them in writing and know you can seek help from state agencies or courts if needed.

Understanding and requesting proper disclosures ensures a smoother, safer renting experience from the very start.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Rhode Island

• RI Housing: Landlord-Tenant Fact Sheets
• Rhode Island District Court – Landlord/Tenant Division
• Housing Help & Legal Aid in Rhode Island
• Rhode Island Department of Health: Lead Safety
• Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. See US EPA Lead Disclosure law and R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-20
2. Flood Disclosure: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-20.1
3. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. Rhode Island District Court - Landlord/Tenant Division Handbook

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