Rhode Island Rules for Vacancy Decontrol in Rent-Controlled Units

Understanding how vacancy decontrol works in Rhode Island rent-controlled units is essential for renters concerned about rent increases, lease renewals, or what happens when tenants move out. This guide addresses the key rules affecting rent-controlled and rent-stabilized housing, including how changes in tenancy can impact rental rates, and where to find support.

What Is Vacancy Decontrol?

Vacancy decontrol refers to the process by which rent restrictions on a rent-controlled or rent-stabilized unit may be lifted after a tenant moves out. In some states or cities, this allows landlords to reset the rent to market value when there is a new tenant. It is important to know that Rhode Island currently does not have statewide rent control or official statewide decontrol rules. However, local towns or cities may have adopted specific ordinances to regulate rents and vacancy decontrol—always check with your local government or city housing authority for recent changes.

Does State Law in Rhode Island Provide Rent Control or Vacancy Decontrol?

Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act ^[1] does not establish statewide rent control or stabilization. This means landlords can generally raise rent after a tenant leaves unless a local ordinance applies. However, cities like Providence have been exploring local rent stabilization measures in recent years. Renters should always verify if their city or town has adopted rent control or decontrol rules by contacting their local housing office.

Local Rent Control Ordinances

Some Rhode Island cities or towns may have local rent stabilization or rent control ordinances. These rules often spell out:

• Limits on annual rent increases
• How much rent can go up when a new tenant signs a lease
• The process and requirements for landlords to apply for a rent increase

For the most accurate information, visit the official website of your local housing department or city council.

What Happens When a Tenant Moves Out?

If your unit falls under a local rent control ordinance that allows vacancy decontrol, here’s what typically happens:

• Once a tenant vacates, the landlord may be able to rent the unit at a new rate, subject to any local laws.
• Some ordinances may cap the new rent or require a specific maximum percentage increase.
• The increase must often be reported to a local rent board or housing department.
• The new tenant receives a new lease with the adjusted rent, and rent control protections restart (if local law provides them).

Many cities do not require a formal application for raising rent due to vacancy, but may require notice to the local housing authority or inclusion of the new terms on official forms.

Relevant Forms and How They're Used

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form: None statewide, but local ordinances may have one)
  Example use: If your city requires notification before rent increases, landlords file this form with the city or city rent board when a new tenant moves in at a higher rent. Check your city housing department for local forms such as the Providence Housing Department page for any downloadable notices or applications.
• Complaint Form (for Illegal Rent Increase)
  Example use: If you suspect your landlord has increased the rent above what's allowed, you may file a complaint with your local housing office or the Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division. Forms for initiating cases are found here (District Court landlord-tenant forms).

Which Tribunal or Board Handles Rent Issues?

Rent disputes and landlord-tenant matters in Rhode Island are generally handled by the Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division ^[2]. This court handles rent disputes, evictions, and complaints regarding rent-controlled housing if your city has such laws.

Relevant Legislation

The main legislation for residential tenancies in Rhode Island is the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Local ordinances may provide further regulation of rent controls and vacancy decontrol, especially in larger municipalities.

FAQ: Rhode Island Rent Control and Vacancy Decontrol

1. Does Rhode Island have statewide rent control or vacancy decontrol?
   No, there is no statewide rent control or vacancy decontrol rule in Rhode Island. Only select cities or towns may have local ordinances affecting rent limits when tenants move out.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent any amount after I move out?
   This usually depends on local law. In most places, yes, but in certain cities with rent control ordinances, there may be specific caps or reporting requirements.
3. How do I check if my unit is under local rent control or vacancy decontrol rules?
   Contact your city’s housing office or planning department for up-to-date information on local rent regulations.
4. Where do I file a complaint if I believe the rent was raised illegally?
   You may contact your local housing office or file with the Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division.
5. Are there official forms for rent increases or complaints?
   There are no statewide forms, but local cities may have their own. For court complaints, visit the District Court landlord-tenant forms page.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• No statewide rent control or vacancy decontrol law exists in Rhode Island as of this year.
• Local ordinances may offer rent regulations and may limit how much rent can increase when tenants move out.
• Rent disputes and complaints are handled by the Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division or your local housing department.

Staying informed about local laws and using official resources is the best way to protect your renter rights if facing rent increases or unit turnover.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division – Resolve disputes, file complaints, and find forms.
• RIHousing (State Housing Authority) – Renter assistance, housing programs, and complaint resources.
• Providence Housing Planning – Local rental regulations and direct city support.
• Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Full text of state tenant-landlord laws.

---

1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Title 34, Chapter 18
2. Rhode Island District Court Landlord Tenant Division

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