Rhode Island Rental Fees & Regulations

Rhode Island Rental Fees & Regulations

Key rental payment and fee regulations in Rhode Island that affect how property management companies handle rent collection, delinquency, and compliance.

This page provides a factual, reference-style overview of key rental fee and payment-related regulations in Rhode Island. It is designed to help property owners, operators, and industry professionals quickly understand how Rhode Island approaches common rental fees, nonpayment, and eviction timelines.

Nonsufficient Funds (NSFs) Fee Regulations in Rhode Island

The table below summarizes common rental fee types and whether Rhode Island law places limits or disclosure requirements on them.

Fee Type Disclosure Requirement Maximum Fee Allowed
Nonsufficient funds (NSF) fee Lease disclosure recommended $25 (in a civil claim)

Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 6-42-3

Nonpayment, Late Fees, and Eviction Timelines in Rhode Island

This table outlines how Rhode Island law treats rent nonpayment, late fees, and the eviction process.

Required Grace Period Late Fee Regulations Written Notice Required Time to Correct or Vacate
15 days No statutory limit Yes 5 days

Source: § 34-18-35 & R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-35

Maximum Allowable Rental-Related Fees in Rhode Island

The following table summarizes maximum limits for other common rental-related charges.

Fee Category Maximum Allowed
Security deposit One month’s rent
Junk fees Application/screening: Landlords may not charge a rental application fee at all. If the tenant does not supply a required official state background/credit report, landlord may charge only the actual cost of obtaining that report.
Convenience/processing: New law (effective Jan 1, 2025) prohibits landlords from charging a “convenience fee” for using a particular rent payment method (e.g., card, specific app, check); they must offer a payment method that does not carry such a fee.
Other non-rent fees: The same 2025 law requires all fees (utilities, renter’s insurance, etc.) to be disclosed in writing as part of the rental agreement or separate disclosure and in the same section as rent; changes in fees require at least 30–40 days’ written notice depending on context. Undisclosed or improperly disclosed fees must be refunded.

Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-59) & House Bill 6087 (HB 6087)



Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. It summarizes rental payment, fee, and eviction-related regulations based on publicly available sources and may not reflect the most current legal developments or the specific circumstances of your property. This content does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Domuso. Domuso makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information for any particular situation. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. You are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and should consult a qualified legal professional for guidance specific to your property or location. Domuso disclaims any liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided on this page.

Last updated: January 2026

SHARE