Rhode Island Security Deposit Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 — Security Deposits
Return Deadline
Your landlord must return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 20 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession.
Penalty for Non-Return
If your landlord fails to return your deposit or provide an itemized statement within 20 calendar days, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19(b).
Key Facts
- Maximum deposit: 1 month rent
- Itemization required: Within 20 calendar days
- Small claims limit: $5,000
Additional Protections
- Deposit capped at 1 month rent
- Landlord must return deposit with itemized deductions within 20 days
What Your Rhode Island Demand Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Rhode Island's actual statute — not a generic template.
Exact Statute Citation
R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the law.
Calculated Deadline
20 calendar days from your move-out date, computed automatically from your specific dates.
Penalty Warning
double the amount wrongfully withheld — cited so your landlord knows the cost of non-compliance.
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Rhode Island Security Deposit FAQ
How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit in Rhode Island?
Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19, your landlord has 20 calendar days after termination of tenancy and delivery of possession to return your security deposit or provide an itemized statement of deductions.
What happens if my Rhode Island landlord doesn't return my deposit on time?
If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the legal deadline, you may be entitled to double the amount wrongfully withheld under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19(b). You can pursue this in small claims court.
What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Rhode Island?
Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19(a), the maximum security deposit in Rhode Island is 1 month rent.
Does my Rhode Island landlord have to itemize deductions from my deposit?
Yes. Rhode Island law requires landlords to provide an itemized list of deductions within 20 calendar days of move-out.
Can I sue my landlord in small claims court in Rhode Island?
Yes. Rhode Island small claims court handles cases up to $5,000. Security deposit disputes are one of the most common small claims cases.
Do I need a lawyer to send a security deposit demand letter in Rhode Island?
No. A demand letter is a formal written request, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Rhode Island-specific demand letter citing R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Security Deposit Demand Letters by State
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