Stop Unannounced Landlord Visits in Rhode Island

As a renter in Rhode Island, your right to privacy is protected by state law. Landlords can't just show up at your rental home without proper notice. If your landlord is making unannounced visits, it's important to know what the law says, what steps you can take, and how to make sure your home feels safe and private. This guide breaks down your rights and practical solutions, all based on official Rhode Island tenancy laws.

Your Right to Privacy: Rhode Island Laws Explained

Rhode Island’s residential landlord-tenant laws safeguard renters from unnecessary interruptions by landlords. According to the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must provide at least two days’ (48 hours) notice before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies or where consent is given. Landlord entry is allowed only at reasonable times and for legitimate reasons—such as repairs, inspections, or showing the property to new tenants or buyers.^[1]

When Can Your Landlord Legally Enter?

• To make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements
• To supply necessary or agreed services
• To show the unit to prospective buyers, tenants, contractors, or lenders
• In cases of emergency (for example, fire, flooding, or a gas leak)

Except for emergencies, proper advance notice is always required.

What to Do If Your Landlord Makes Unannounced Visits

If your landlord comes into your rental unit without warning, it can feel intrusive. Here’s what you should do:

• Document Each Incident: Write down the date, time, and details of every unannounced entry. Photos or messages can help support your case.
• Communicate in Writing: Politely remind your landlord of the legal notice requirement. You can refer to state law and request that all future entries follow the notice rules.
• Send a Formal Written Notice: If the behavior continues, provide a formal written notice asking your landlord to stop the unannounced visits.
• Seek Mediation or File a Complaint: If your landlord still doesn’t comply, you can contact the appropriate state agency or file a formal complaint.

Being proactive can help resolve the issue quickly while maintaining a positive rental relationship.

Official Forms to Protect Your Privacy

• Tenant’s Formal Written Notice (No Official State Form)
  Rhode Island does not provide a specific form for tenants to request that landlords cease illegal entry. Instead, you may write a dated letter stating your request and referencing Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-26.
  Example: Jane’s landlord stopped by unannounced three times in one week. She wrote a letter citing the 48-hour notice rule and delivered it to her landlord, keeping a copy for her records.
• Complaint Form to the Rhode Island District Court (Residential Landlord–Tenant Matters)
  If issues continue, renters may file a complaint with the Rhode Island District Court. This process starts with written documentation and may require a court-provided complaint form (contact the Court Clerk for the latest version and process).
  Example: After repeated privacy violations, John completes the complaint paperwork to request a hearing before a judge.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant–Landlord Issues?

Residential tenancy disputes in Rhode Island are managed by the Rhode Island District Court's Landlord-Tenant Division.

How to Address Unauthorized Landlord Entry

Taking action as soon as problems begin can help prevent escalation.

1. Politely remind your landlord of Rhode Island’s 48-hour notice rule in writing.
2. If it happens again, keep records of all incidents and communications.
3. Send a more formal written notice referencing the state law.
4. If privacy violations persist, contact the District Court Landlord-Tenant Division for further steps and possible legal remedies.

Most issues can be resolved through clear communication and documentation, but legal action remains available if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does my landlord have to give notice before entering my rental unit in Rhode Island?
   Yes. Landlords must give at least 48 hours’ written or verbal notice before entering, unless it is an emergency.
2. What counts as a reasonable entry time for a landlord?
   Rhode Island law generally requires that entry happen during normal business hours unless you agree otherwise or there is an emergency.
3. Can I refuse my landlord’s entry if they don’t give notice?
   You may refuse entry if your landlord fails to provide proper notice, except in emergencies. Document the incident and communicate your concerns in writing.
4. What can I do if my landlord keeps ignoring the law?
   Keep records, send formal written notice, and consider filing a complaint with the Rhode Island District Court if the issue continues.
5. Is there a specific form I can use to stop my landlord’s unannounced visits?
   There is no state-issued tenant form. Use a dated and signed letter referencing Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-26 to formally request compliance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division – Handles rental disputes and complaints.
• Rhode Island Housing – Offers resources and assistance for tenants.
• State of Rhode Island Official Portal – For state-wide services and tenant information.
• Rhode Island Center for Justice – Provides legal support for eligible tenants.

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1. Rhode Island General Laws § 34-18-26 – Landlord Entry
2. Rhode Island District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division
3. RI Housing – Tenant Resources

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