Rhode Island Tenant Protections Against Domestic Violence

If you rent in Rhode Island and have experienced domestic violence, there are important legal protections to help keep you safe in your home. Rhode Island law allows you to request certain changes to your rental, terminate your lease early without penalty, or shield yourself from landlord retaliation, all to support your safety and housing stability during a difficult time. This guide explains your options and how to access help, using clear language and official resources.

Understanding Rhode Island’s Domestic Violence Tenant Protections

Rhode Island offers legal protections for tenants who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The purpose is to help renters stay safe in their homes without risking eviction or financial penalties.

Your Rights as a Tenant Affected by Domestic Violence

• Early Lease Termination: You may end your lease without penalty if you need to move for safety reasons.
• Right to Change Locks: You can request lock changes or install new locks for protection.
• Protection from Retaliation: Landlords cannot evict or punish you for exercising your domestic violence rights.
• Privacy: Your status as a victim and any related documentation are kept confidential by your landlord.

These rights are found in the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 34-18-57, covering domestic violence protections for tenants.^[1]

How to Exercise Your Protections

Rhode Island renters can take practical action to enhance their safety and end their tenancy early if needed. The process generally involves providing written notice and supporting documentation to your landlord.

Early Lease Termination Process

• Provide your landlord with written notice that you are a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
• Include a copy of a court order (such as a restraining order/protective order) or documentation from a qualified third party, such as a police report, medical professional, or victim advocate.
• The law requires your landlord to release you from your lease within 30 days after receiving notice and documentation.

See the Rhode Island Judiciary official forms portal for court order templates, such as the Protection from Abuse Order, Family Court Form DR-6—typically used when seeking a restraining order.

Requesting Lock Changes for Safety

• Submit a written request to your landlord to change the locks.
• You are responsible for the lock change cost unless your lease says otherwise.
• Always provide your landlord with a copy of the new key.

If you believe your landlord is not respecting your rights, you can seek help from the Rhode Island District Court Landlord and Tenant Division, which hears most tenant-landlord disputes.

Required Forms and Documentation

• Protection from Abuse Order (Family Court DR-6):
  Used to obtain a restraining order. Required if you want to terminate your lease early or request lock changes as proof of domestic violence.
  Download Application for Protection from Abuse (Form DR-6).
  Practical Example: If you have a restraining order against someone who might try to harm you at home, this form is your official proof when notifying your landlord.
• Written Notice to Landlord:
  There is no official statewide template, but a signed, dated letter with your information, request (early termination or lock change), and attached proof is sufficient.
  Practical Example: After obtaining a police report, you send a written letter to your landlord along with the report to ask for early lease termination.

What If Your Landlord Refuses Help?

If your landlord will not honor your notice, refuses to change the locks, or seeks to evict you because of your domestic violence status, you can file a complaint or seek legal relief through the Rhode Island District Court’s Landlord and Tenant Division. They are responsible for enforcing tenant protections under state law.

FAQ

1. Can my landlord evict me because I am a victim of domestic violence?
   No. Rhode Island law prohibits landlords from retaliating against or evicting tenants for asserting their legal protections related to domestic violence.
2. How do I end my lease early for safety reasons?
   Provide your landlord with written notice and documentation (e.g., a court order or police report). Your lease will end 30 days after the landlord receives your notice.
3. Who pays for lock changes if I request them for safety?
   As the tenant, you must cover the cost of changing locks unless your rental agreement states otherwise.
4. What documents are accepted as proof of domestic violence?
   Acceptable documentation includes a protective order, police report, or statement from a medical provider, victim advocate, or attorney.
5. Can I get help even if I don’t have a court order?
   Yes, other documents like police reports or letters from qualified professionals can qualify as proof under the law.

Key Takeaways

• Rhode Island laws protect tenants affected by domestic violence, including the right to break a lease early or request lock changes for safety.
• Official, timely documentation is required for these protections to apply.
• Resources and legal help are available if your landlord fails to honor your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord and Tenant Division – Handles tenant claims, disputes, and complaints.
• Rhode Island Housing – State agency for rental assistance and housing support.
• Rhode Island Judiciary Court Forms – Official portal for restraining orders and other forms.
• Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence – Free support and advocacy for survivors.

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1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Section 34-18-57: Domestic violence as defense to eviction.
2. Rhode Island District Court Landlord and Tenant Division: Official site.
3. Family Court Form DR-6: Application for Protection from Abuse (Restraining Order).
4. Rhode Island Housing: Official Housing Resource.

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