Short answer: In Rhode Island, your landlord's policy doesn't cover your belongings or liability. Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19, a landlord can't demand or receive a security deposit of more than one month's rent. A separate furniture deposit of up to one month's rent is allowed only for furnished units with furniture worth $5,000 or more. The landlord must deliver an itemized notice and the amount due within 20 days after the latest of the end of the tenancy, delivery of possession, or your providing a forwarding address. If they don't, you may recover twice the amount wrongfully withheld.
This guide is general information for Rhode Island renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.
Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.
Step 1: Deposit cap
Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19, a security deposit can't exceed one month's periodic rent. For a furnished unit with furniture valued at $5,000 or more when the lease is signed, the landlord may charge a separate furniture security deposit of up to one month's rent.
Step 2: The 20-day return
- At the end of the tenancy, the landlord may deduct only unpaid rent, reasonable cleaning and trash disposal, and physical damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, all itemized in a written notice.
- The notice and the amount due must be delivered within 20 days after the later of: the end of the tenancy, delivery of possession, or your providing a forwarding address for the deposit. So send your forwarding address in writing.
- A rental agreement can't waive these rules.
Step 3: Double damages
If the landlord doesn't comply, you may recover the amount due plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees.
Step 4: Coastal storms
Rhode Island renters face hurricanes and nor'easters. Renters insurance typically covers belongings for wind damage, but flood and storm surge are generally excluded; see FloodSmart.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Rhode Island.
Frequently asked questions
What's the maximum security deposit in Rhode Island?
One month's rent, under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19, plus a possible furniture deposit for qualifying furnished units.
How long does a Rhode Island landlord have to return my deposit?
Within 20 days after the latest of the end of the tenancy, delivery of possession, or your forwarding address.
What can a Rhode Island landlord deduct?
Unpaid rent, reasonable cleaning and trash disposal, and damage beyond ordinary wear and tear, itemized in writing.
What's the penalty for wrongfully withholding a Rhode Island deposit?
Twice the amount wrongfully withheld, plus reasonable attorney's fees.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.