Rhode Island Residential Lease Disclosure Requirements

Renting a home in Rhode Island means understanding your rights under state law—especially when it comes to required disclosures in your lease. Knowing what information your landlord is legally obligated to provide helps you make informed decisions, avoid future disputes, and protect your health and safety. This guide covers what Rhode Island renters should know about required disclosures in residential leases, updated for 2024.

What Is a Required Disclosure in a Rhode Island Lease?

A required disclosure is information that a landlord must legally share with tenants, either before or when signing a lease. Disclosures help renters understand property conditions, legal rights, and potential health or safety issues. Rhode Island law ensures these are provided so renters are not left in the dark.

Key Required Disclosures for Rhode Island Rentals

• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: Federal law requires this for most homes built before 1978.
• Landlord Contact Information: The name or person authorized to act for the landlord must be included.
• Notice of Noncompliance with Building or Housing Codes: If there are outstanding code violations that affect health or safety.
• Move-in Condition Report: If security deposit is collected, a written itemized list describing the condition must be provided.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (EPA and HUD Form)

If you are renting a property built before 1978, your landlord must give you the federal lead-based paint disclosure form and a government-approved pamphlet, "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home".

• Form Name: Lead Warning Statement and Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards
• When Used: Before a lease is signed for any residential dwelling built before 1978
• Where to find: EPA Sample Lead Disclosure Forms
• Example: If you sign a lease for an apartment constructed in 1969, ask for the completed Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form before moving in.

Landlord or Agent Identification

The landlord must include the name and address of themselves or their representative in the lease agreement. This allows renters to know whom to contact for notices, repairs, or emergencies.

Notice of Code Violations

If the property has any known building or housing code violations that affect the dwelling's health or safety, your landlord must disclose this in writing before you sign.

• Reference: Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-20

An example: If the apartment you plan to rent has an unresolved heating system violation, you must receive written notice about the issue before signing.

Move-In Condition Report (Security Deposit Requirement)

If paying a security deposit, Rhode Island law requires landlords to supply a written, itemized statement of the condition of the property at move-in. Tenants should review and keep a copy—it's essential for protecting your deposit later.

• When Used: Whenever a security deposit is paid
• Reference: Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-19

Official Tribunal for Rhode Island Tenancy Issues

Rhode Island residential tenancy matters are usually handled by the District Court's Landlord-Tenant Division. This is the state's official board for resolving disputes such as eviction, security deposit returns, or breach of disclosures.

Legislation Governing Rhode Island Leases

The Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out all the main rules for leases, including required disclosures, notice periods, and tenant protections.

What Happens If Disclosures Are Missing?

If your landlord fails to provide a required disclosure, you may gain certain legal protections, such as the right to cancel the lease, claim damages in court, or report violations. Always try first to resolve the issue directly in writing with your landlord, and keep documentation in case you need to escalate to the courts or seek legal help.

FAQ: Required Lease Disclosures in Rhode Island

1. What disclosures are landlords required to give in Rhode Island?
   Landlords in Rhode Island must provide lead-based paint disclosure (for homes built before 1978), contact information, written notice of unresolved code violations, and a condition report if a security deposit is paid.
2. Can I refuse to sign a lease without the required disclosures?
   Yes, you should not sign a lease until you have received all relevant disclosures. Signing without them could limit your legal protections later.
3. How can I report a landlord who does not provide disclosures?
   You can contact the Rhode Island District Court’s Landlord-Tenant Division or your local Fair Housing Office to file a complaint or seek mediation.
4. Are there penalties for landlords who don't follow disclosure laws?
   Yes, Rhode Island law allows tenants to seek damages or terminate the lease in some cases if required disclosures are not provided.
5. What should be in the move-in condition report?
   It should detail the state of all rooms, appliances, fixtures, and any existing damage. Both you and the landlord should sign and keep a copy for reference.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Rhode Island law protects renters by requiring landlords to provide certain information about the property and their rights.
• Always receive and keep disclosure forms before signing a lease, especially regarding lead paint and property condition.
• If disclosures are missing, seek written resolution and know your option to report or act under state law.

Staying informed about lease disclosure requirements helps prevent problems and ensures your renting experience is safe and transparent.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court, Landlord-Tenant Division — for filing complaints or getting legal forms
• Rhode Island Attorney General: Landlord/Tenant Rights
• Rhode Island Commission for Human Rights — Fair housing issues
• Read the full Rhode Island Residential Landlord & Tenant Act

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1. EPA Sample Lead Disclosure Forms and Information
2. Disclosure of Code Violations: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-20
3. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
4. RI District Court: Landlord-Tenant Information

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