What To Do If Your Rhode Island Landlord Breaks Your Lease

If you’re a renter in Rhode Island and your landlord has broken the lease agreement, it’s important to know your rights and the practical steps you can take to protect yourself. Common issues include unauthorized entry, sudden eviction threats, withheld security deposits, or changes to your rental terms without proper notice. Rhode Island law provides strong protections for renters—and support is available if you need it.

Understanding Lease Violations in Rhode Island

A lease is a legally binding contract between you and your landlord. In Rhode Island, landlords must uphold their end of the agreement and the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act outlines these obligations.^[1]

• Common violations include:
• Entering your apartment without required notice or cause
• Changing locks or shutting off utilities as retaliation or to force you out
• Raising rent mid-lease without your agreement
• Failing to make vital repairs as agreed or required by law
• Evicting you without following required legal steps

If your landlord violates the lease, the steps below help you document the issue, seek resolution, and get legal support if necessary.

Key Steps to Take if Your Landlord Breaks the Lease

Acting promptly and documenting everything helps protect your rights. Here’s what to do:

1. Review Your Lease and State Law

• Look carefully at your signed lease agreement. Note any terms your landlord isn’t honoring.
• Compare with the official Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for tenant protections.

2. Document All Violations

• Keep written records of what happened and when.
• Save texts, emails, letters, or take dated photos if repairs were neglected.

3. Communicate in Writing

• Inform your landlord in writing about the violation. Clearly state what you expect as a resolution.
• Keep a copy of all communications and any responses.

4. Use the Official "Tenant’s Complaint Form"

• Form Name: Rhode Island District Court – Tenant’s Complaint Form [No official statewide form number]
• When to Use: If your landlord ignores your written complaint or the problem continues, you can file a tenant complaint to begin the process of seeking legal relief.
• How to Use: Complete the form describing the lease violation and file it at your local Rhode Island District Court location. This starts the formal review process.
• Find the Rhode Island District Court Forms and Submission Details

5. Seek Mediation or File a Complaint

• Rhode Island’s District Court handles residential rental disputes. If informal communication fails, you can apply for court mediation or, in severe cases (such as lockouts or major health/safety issues), file a formal complaint or petition for relief.
• Rhode Island District Court – Housing Matters

If you’re facing emergency issues (like lockout or utility shutoff), you can file for an emergency hearing at the District Court. This can help restore your rights quickly.

6. Retaliation Is Illegal

Landlords in Rhode Island cannot retaliate against you (such as by raising rent, evicting, or reducing services) because you asserted your legal rights or complained to authorities.^[1]

Understanding the Tribunal and Legislation

Most rental disputes are handled by the Rhode Island District Court. The key law is the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 34-18).

• For official forms and guidance, visit the District Court Forms Page.

FAQ: Rhode Island Lease Violations and Tenant Rights

1. Can I break my lease if my landlord violates it in Rhode Island?
   In certain cases, yes. If the landlord’s violation is serious—such as failing to make vital repairs after notice, or unlawfully entering or harassing you—you may be able to end your lease early after giving proper written notice and following legal steps. Always review the lease and seek advice first.
2. Who handles rental housing complaints in Rhode Island?
   The Rhode Island District Court is responsible for residential lease and eviction disputes, including housing complaints.
3. How much written notice does my landlord have to give before entering?
   Your landlord must give you at least 2 days’ notice before entering your rental, except in emergencies. This is outlined in the state law.
4. What if my landlord tries to evict me without going to court?
   This is an illegal eviction. Only the court can order an eviction; your landlord can’t lock you out or remove your belongings without a court order.
5. Where can I get free legal help as a Rhode Island renter?
   Organizations like Rhode Island Legal Services and housing advocacy programs offer free legal advice and support to renters.

Summary: Protecting Yourself as a Rhode Island Renter

• Always document everything and communicate in writing with your landlord.
• File a formal complaint at District Court if your landlord doesn’t resolve the issue.
• Remember, Rhode Island law prohibits retaliation and protects your right to safe, fair housing.

Understanding your rights and acting quickly ensures the best possible outcome if your landlord violates your lease in Rhode Island.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court – Housing Matters
• Rhode Island Housing – Renter Resources
• Rhode Island Legal Services – Free Tenant Legal Help
• Text of the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

---

1. See the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 34-18) for full tenant and landlord rights, duties, notice requirements, and complaint procedures.
2. Official complaint forms and filing info: Rhode Island District Court Forms page.
3. For specific emergencies or rapid response, court contacts: District Court – Housing Matters.

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