Understanding 30-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notices in Rhode Island

If you’re a renter in Rhode Island, understanding your rights when it comes to eviction notices is vital. Landlords must follow state laws before asking tenants to leave, using either a 30-day or 7-day notice, depending on the situation. Knowing which notice applies to you—and what steps you can take—can help you protect your home and make informed decisions.

Rhode Island Eviction Notices: What Renters Need to Know

Eviction is a legal process. It starts when a landlord gives a formal written notice explaining the reason and the time a renter has to fix the problem or move out. The two most common types of notices in Rhode Island are the 30-day notice and the 7-day notice.

What is a 30-Day Eviction Notice?

A 30-day notice is generally used to end a month-to-month rental agreement or for situations other than nonpayment of rent. Your landlord must give you at least 30 days’ advance written notice if they want you to move out without claiming you have broken any lease term (for example, if they want to stop renting entirely or make major repairs). You do not have to leave before this time unless a court orders it.

• Who gets this notice? Most often, renters on a month-to-month or week-to-week lease.
• When is it used? When the landlord is ending tenancy for reasons other than unpaid rent or major lease violations.
• What if you don’t move? The landlord can then file an eviction case in Rhode Island District Court.

Notice to Terminate Tenancy (30-Day Notice Form)—Used for month-to-month tenancies. The landlord completes and serves this on the tenant; for example, if your landlord decides to sell their property and needs you to move out, they must use this notice.^[1]

What is a 7-Day Eviction Notice?

A 7-day notice is used when a tenant has not paid rent on time or has violated the lease (other than nonpayment of rent, such as causing damage, or unauthorized occupants). You have 7 days to pay the overdue rent or fix the violation, or your landlord may take the next step in the eviction process.

• Who gets this notice? Renters who are behind on rent or have violated part of the rental agreement.
• What does it allow? If you pay the past-due rent or correct the issue within 7 days, your tenancy continues. If not, your landlord can file for eviction in court.
• Form to expect: This is usually called a "5-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notice." For rent issues, it is a 5-day notice; for non-rent violations, it is a 7-day notice.

5-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notice Form (Rhode Island Judiciary)—Landlords use this to begin the eviction process for rent or other lease violations. For example, if your rent was due on the 1st and still unpaid by the 6th, your landlord might serve you a 5- or 7-day notice.^[2]

Official Tribunal for Rhode Island Renters

All eviction cases in Rhode Island are handled by the Rhode Island District Court—Landlord and Tenant Division. This is where a landlord must file an official complaint if you do not move by the end of the notice period.

Relevant Rhode Island Tenancy Laws

Key tenant and landlord rights, including eviction procedures, are set out in the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 34, Chapter 18).^[3]

Understanding the Process – Timeline at a Glance

• Landlord issues a written 7-day or 30-day notice to tenant
• If tenant does not comply or move out, landlord files a complaint with District Court
• Tenant is served with court paperwork, can appear at hearing
• If judge rules for eviction, tenant is given a final move-out date

How to Respond to an Eviction Notice

• Read the notice carefully. Check the reason, the date, and any action you can take to fix the problem.
• If the notice says you can pay overdue rent or fix the violation within the notice period, do so and provide proof to your landlord.
• If you have questions or believe the notice is unjustified, contact Rhode Island Housing or legal aid services immediately.
• If a court summons arrives, attend the hearing. Not attending can result in automatic eviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me without notice in Rhode Island?
   No, your landlord must always give written notice and follow the process under Rhode Island law.
2. Is the 7-day notice always for unpaid rent?
   No, it can also be used for other lease violations besides unpaid rent, like property damage or unauthorized occupants.
3. Can I stop the eviction if I pay my rent after receiving a 7-day notice?
   Yes, if you pay the full amount within the 7-day period, your landlord cannot proceed with eviction for nonpayment.
4. What if I need more time to move after getting a 30-day notice?
   You can ask your landlord in writing for more time, but they are not required to grant it. If you stay past the deadline, you might face a court hearing.
5. Which agency officially oversees evictions in Rhode Island?
   The Rhode Island District Court—Landlord and Tenant Division.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Rhode Island landlords must provide written notice before starting eviction—7 days for rent/violations, 30 days for most other situations.
• You have the right to fix issues or attend court, and you never have to move before a court order.
• Get help quickly if you receive any eviction notice; resources are available for free advice and assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court—Landlord and Tenant Division (Evictions & filings)
• Rhode Island Housing—Renter Resources (Tenant support and referrals)
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Rhode Island Legal Services (Free or low-cost legal advice)

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1. Notice to Terminate Tenancy (30-Day Notice Form), Rhode Island Judiciary, official forms
2. 5-Day and 7-Day Eviction Notice Forms, Rhode Island Judiciary, official forms
3. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Title 34, Chapter 18), official legislation

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