Rhode Island Mobile Home Park Rules: Tenant Rights Explained

Living in a mobile home park in Rhode Island offers valuable flexibility, but it also means following certain rules while enjoying important legal protections. This article guides renters through park regulations, tenant rights, and actions to take if issues arise—using up-to-date state law and official resources to empower you as a resident.

Understanding Mobile Home Park Rules in Rhode Island

Every mobile home park in Rhode Island can set its own rules, but all rules must comply with state law under the Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Home Parks Rights Act^[1]. These rules often cover:

• Maintenance of your lot and home appearance
• Parking and vehicle restrictions
• Noise and quiet hours
• Use of shared spaces and amenities

Parks must provide tenants with a written copy of all rules and notify them of any proposed changes, typically with at least 30 days' advance notice.

Tenant Rights in Rhode Island Mobile Home Parks

As a resident, state law gives you clear rights:

• Written Lease: You must receive a signed lease that states lot rent, fees, and all park rules.
• No Unfair Eviction: You can't be evicted without cause. Valid reasons include late payment, rule violations (after written notice), or the park closing.
• Rent Increase Protections: Landlords must provide at least 60 days' written notice before raising your lot rent.
• Right to Repairs: Landlords are responsible for maintaining roads, utility lines, and common areas in safe condition.
• Protection from Retaliation: Landlords can't evict or retaliate against you for reporting problems or joining a resident organization.

For a full overview of these rights, see the RI Landlord-Tenant Handbook.

Rent Increases and Eviction Process

Rent Increases

Owners must give at least 60 days' written notice before any rent increase takes effect. If you disagree with a rent increase, you can:

• Discuss the increase with park management
• Contact Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General for help
• Seek mediation through the local District Court Landlord-Tenant process

Eviction Protections & Process

Evictions can only happen for certain "good causes" like repeated rule violations or nonpayment of rent. The park owner must serve a written notice and, if the issue isn't resolved, file with the Rhode Island District Court, which acts as the tribunal for these matters.

• Tenants have the right to attend the hearing and present evidence
• Final eviction orders must be enforced by a sheriff or constable—not the landlord directly

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Five-Day Demand Notice for Nonpayment of Rent
  • Used by landlords when rent is late; gives tenants five days to pay or face eviction proceedings
  • If you receive this notice, respond promptly or seek help immediately
  • Download the official DC-30 form here
• Complaint for Eviction for Reason Other Than Nonpayment of Rent (DC-27)
  • Filed by landlords for reasons like rule violations, safety concerns, or park closure
  • Tenants should carefully review this notice and prepare for a hearing
  • Download the DC-27 form here

If you need to respond to a notice, always keep copies and consult resources listed below.

Resolving Disputes and Filing Complaints

If you're unable to resolve a dispute directly with park management, you can file a case at the Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division. This is the official tribunal for rental housing cases, including all mobile home park matters. You can find court locations and procedures in the official District Court Landlord-Tenant Guide.

FAQ

1. What notice must my landlord give before changing park rules?
   Rhode Island law requires at least 30 days' written notice before any rule changes take effect, and park owners cannot change rules in a way that violates your lease or state protections.
2. Can I be evicted for complaining about park conditions?
   No. State law protects you against eviction or retaliation for reporting health, safety, or maintenance problems to park management or government agencies.
3. How do I respond to a nonpayment eviction notice?
   Immediately pay the overdue rent if possible, or attend your District Court hearing to present your case. Seek legal help if needed.
4. Does the park owner have to maintain roads and common areas?
   Yes. Owners are legally required to maintain park facilities, utility lines, and shared spaces in a safe, usable condition.
5. Where do I file an official complaint or respond to an eviction?
   All complaints and eviction cases are handled by the Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division.

Key Takeaways

• Mobile home park tenants in Rhode Island have the right to a written lease, advance notice of rent increases and park rule changes, and protection from unfair eviction.
• Evictions require written notice and a court process; you have the right to respond and attend a hearing.
• Use only official state forms and contact the District Court for disputes or questions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division (Official housing tribunal and court process guide)
• RI Housing (Statewide information on tenant rights and complaints)
• Rhode Island Legal Services (Free or low-cost tenant legal support)
• Office of the RI Attorney General: Consumer Protection
• DC-27: Complaint for Eviction (Reasons Other Than Nonpayment) (official form)

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1. Rhode Island Mobile and Manufactured Home Parks Rights Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 31-44)
2. RI Landlord-Tenant Handbook (RI Housing)
3. Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division (Housing Tribunal)
4. DC-30: Five-Day Demand Notice (official court form)

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