Security Deposit Laws in Rhode Island
Rhode Island caps security deposits at one month's rent, requires return with an itemized notice within 20 days after the later of move-out or the tenant providing a forwarding address, and requires two days' notice before entry.
Last checked . General information, not legal advice.
Rhode Island at a glance
- Security deposit limit
- 1 month's rent
- Deposit return deadline
- 20 days
- 20 days after the later of termination, delivery of possession, or forwarding address
- Interest on deposits
- Not required by state law
- Some cities have their own interest rules
- Notice before landlord entry
- 48 hours
- At least 2 days' notice
The rules in Rhode Island
How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island limits security deposits to 1 month's rent.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island rule: 20 days after the later of termination, delivery of possession, or forwarding address.
Does a landlord have to pay interest on a security deposit in Rhode Island?
No. Rhode Island state law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. Some cities have their own rules.
How much notice must a landlord give before entering a rental in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island rule: At least 2 days' notice.
Where do the Rhode Island rules for residential leases come from?
They come from R.I. Gen. Laws 34-18-19 and R.I. Gen. Laws 34-18-26. We last checked them in October 2026. Laws change, so check the current statute before you rely on it.
How Rhode Island compares
Rhode Island is one of 30 jurisdictions that cap deposits by law. Its 20-day return deadline is shorter than the most common deadline of 30 days; 7 jurisdictions require a faster return.
What this means in practice
Landlords: state the deposit amount, where it is held and how it will be returned in the lease, and send the refund with any deductions in writing within the deadline.
Tenants: record the unit's condition with photos and a move-in checklist, keep your receipts, and give the landlord a forwarding address in writing when you move out.
Both sides: normal wear and tear is generally not deductible. Disputes over deductions usually go to small claims court.
General information, not legal advice. Laws change, and cities can add their own rules, so check the current statute before you rely on it.