Rhode Island Rules for Notice Before Moving Out

When you’re planning to move out of a rental property in Rhode Island, it’s important to understand your legal obligations for giving your landlord notice. Following the correct notice period helps protect your security deposit, avoid unnecessary rent charges, and ensures a smooth transition. This article breaks down the notice period requirements for renters, provides official resources, and explains how to notify your landlord properly under Rhode Island law.

Understanding Move-Out Notice Periods in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, renters are required to give their landlord written notice before moving out. The required notice period depends on the type of lease agreement you have:

• Month-to-Month Lease: You must give at least 30 days’ written notice before moving out. The notice should be given before the start of the final rental period.^[1]
• Fixed-Term Lease (e.g., one year): Typically, the lease ends automatically on the date stated, unless it renews automatically. Check your lease for auto-renewal clauses; you may need to give notice if your lease specifies it.
• Week-to-Week Lease: You must provide at least 10 days’ written notice before the end of the rental week.^[1]

If you don’t give the correct notice, you could be held responsible for additional rent or lose some of your security deposit.

How to Provide Proper Move-Out Notice

The law in Rhode Island requires that notice be provided in writing. The notice should include your name, property address, the date you plan to move out, and your signature. Even if you talk to your landlord, always follow up in writing for your records.

If you’re mailing your notice, send it by a trackable method, or hand-deliver it and keep a copy. This will help if there’s a dispute later about whether proper notice was given.

Relevant Official Forms

• Sample Notice to Vacate (Rhode Island does not have a single state-issued form, but many local housing agencies provide templates.) For example, you can use the sample notice provided by the Rhode Island Judiciary ("Notice of Vacating Premises" form).
  When to use it: If you are ending your month-to-month or week-to-week tenancy and need to provide official written notice.
  How to use it: Complete the form, deliver it to your landlord by the appropriate deadline, and keep a copy for your records.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes?

If disagreements arise about notice or your move-out, they are handled by the Rhode Island District Court, Landlord-Tenant Division. This tribunal oversees eviction cases, disputes over notices, and other residential tenancy matters.

Rhode Island Lease Termination Laws

All move-out notice requirements are set by the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 34-18). Major points include:

• Month-to-month tenants: Section 34-18-37(a) – at least 30 days’ notice in writing.
• Week-to-week tenants: Section 34-18-37(b) – at least 10 days’ notice in writing.
• Additional rules for terminating fixed-term leases and exceptional circumstances (consult your lease and the legislation above).

If you have questions about your specific rights or how your lease applies, consult the law or reach out to one of the resources below.

Tip: Give your notice with extra time if possible, and always keep all written records for your protection.

FAQ: Rhode Island Notice to Move Out

1. How much notice do I have to give my landlord to move out in Rhode Island?
   Generally, you must give 30 days’ written notice if you rent month-to-month, or 10 days’ notice if you pay weekly.
2. Where do I send my move-out notice?
   Send or hand-deliver your written notice to the address for notices specified in your lease or to your landlord’s usual place of business. Keep a copy for yourself.
3. What if I move out without giving the right notice?
   Your landlord may be entitled to additional rent or to keep some or all of your deposit. Always try to follow the legal notice period.
4. Is there an official form I must use for notice to vacate?
   Rhode Island does not require a specific form, but a sample "Notice of Vacating Premises" is available through the Rhode Island Judiciary.
5. Can my landlord waive the notice period?
   Yes, but get any waiver in writing for your protection.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division – Tribunal handling disputes and legal cases
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full legislation text
• Rhode Island Housing Renter Resources – Renters assistance and guidance
• Sample Notice of Vacating Premises (PDF)

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1. Section 34-18-37, Rhode Island General Laws, Notice of Termination of Tenancy

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