Rhode Island Safe Drinking Water Rights for Renters

As a Rhode Island renter, having access to safe and clean drinking water is more than a comfort—it's a legal right. Understanding these water quality standards can protect your health and help you address issues quickly if problems arise. This guide explains the health and safety rules for drinking water in rental properties, how to seek help, and what resources are available to you.

What Counts as Safe Drinking Water in Rhode Island Rentals?

State and federal laws require landlords to provide water that is safe for drinking, cooking, and bathing. This applies whether your rental receives municipal (city) water or uses a private well.

• Municipal Water: Most rentals in Rhode Island are connected to a city or town water supply. These must meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) standards. You can learn more about public drinking water requirements in Rhode Island.
• Private Wells: Landlords with private wells must provide water that meets safety guidelines set by RIDOH. Testing for contaminants like lead and bacteria is essential.

If your tap water is discolored, smells odd, or you suspect it's unsafe, you have the right to request repairs or testing from your landlord.

Landlord Obligations and Legal Standards

Rhode Island law requires rental units to be fit and habitable, including access to hot and cold running water. The key law is the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Landlords must:

• Provide safe, potable water at all times
• Correct issues with water supply, contamination, or plumbing within a reasonable period
• Comply with local health department orders and water quality standards

The Rhode Island Department of Health – Drinking Water Program oversees water quality. Renters can file a complaint if landlords fail to address water issues promptly.

Steps to Take if Your Rental Has Unsafe Water

If you think your drinking water is unsafe, here’s how you can act:

• Notify your landlord in writing about the problem.
• Request that the water be tested (especially if it’s a private well).
• If there’s no action, contact the Rhode Island Department of Health to file a complaint.
• Retain copies of all communications and any water test results.

The department may order the landlord to make repairs or take emergency steps if water is unsafe for use.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Unsafe Drinking Water Complaint Form (RIDOH)
  Use this form if your tap water is not safe and your landlord does not fix the issue. File it with the RIDOH. Download the Drinking Water Complaint Form.
  Example: If your water smells like chemicals or tests positive for bacteria and your landlord will not act, fill this form and attach any water test results.
• Request for Inspection – Local Code Enforcement
  Tenants can also request an inspection by the local code enforcement office if conditions may violate housing codes. Find your local office through Rhode Island Local Government Directory.

Your Rights Under Rhode Island Tenancy Law

The Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects your right to habitable housing, including safe and working water. The law also prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who report unsafe water or code violations.

The tribunal that hears rental disputes is the Rhode Island District Court (handling residential landlord-tenant matters).

FAQ: Safe Water in Rhode Island Rentals

1. What should I do if my water is brown or smells bad?
   If your rental water appears discolored or has an unusual smell, promptly notify your landlord and request testing or repair. If they don’t act, file a complaint with the Rhode Island Department of Health.
2. Can I withhold rent if my landlord does not fix the water?
   Rhode Island law requires following proper procedures. Only withhold rent if the water issue makes the unit uninhabitable and after written notice and legal documentation. Consider seeking legal help if unsure.
3. How do I request a water quality inspection for my apartment?
   You can contact your local code enforcement or health department, and use the "Unsanitary Drinking Water Complaint Form" if necessary, to request an inspection or investigation.
4. Who enforces water safety in rentals?
   The Rhode Island Department of Health regulates drinking water quality, while local code enforcement ensures properties meet housing codes. The District Court rules on unresolved disputes.
5. Does my landlord have to test a well for lead or contaminants?
   Yes, landlords must ensure water from private wells meets safety standards and is tested as required by state health and housing codes.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Landlords must provide safe, drinkable water in all rentals under state law.
• Tenants can report problems to the Rhode Island Department of Health with the official complaint form.
• Keep records of all communication and seek assistance if issues persist.

Safe water is a core part of your right to a habitable home. If problems arise, take action quickly using official resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Department of Health Drinking Water Program – Leasing water safety info and complaint process
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full legal framework
• Rhode Island District Court – Handles rental disputes and enforcement
• Contact Rhode Island Department of Health – File complaints or ask questions

---

1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – official legislation
2. Rhode Island Department of Health – public drinking water standards
3. RIDOH Drinking Water Complaint Form – official source
4. Rhode Island District Court – official information

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations