Rhode Island Deposit Return Deadline
20 daysUnder Rhode Island law, a landlord generally has 20 days after move-out to return your security deposit (or provide an itemized statement of deductions) — the FAQ below covers the conditions that can change the deadline.
Educational information: generated from our Rhode Island law database (last updated 2024-01-01). Not legal advice.
How Rhode Island compares
51 of 51 US jurisdictions set a statutory deadline for returning security deposits. Here is how Rhode Island compares with other states in our database.
| State | Deposit Return Deadline |
|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 20 days |
| South Carolina | 30 days |
| South Dakota | 14 days (statement within 45) |
| Tennessee | 30 days |
| Texas | 30 days |
Frequently asked questions
- How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Rhode Island?
- Generally 20 days after move-out. Maximum 1 month rent. Additional furniture deposit allowed if furniture value exceeds $5,000. Return within 20 days after termination or receiving forwarding address. Penalty: 2x amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees.
- Can a Rhode Island landlord keep my deposit for damages?
- Landlords may generally deduct for unpaid rent and damage beyond normal wear and tear, but must account for deductions. Deductions for ordinary wear and tear are not allowed.
- What if my Rhode Island landlord misses the deposit return deadline?
- Missing the statutory deadline (20 days) can expose the landlord to statutory penalties. Maximum 1 month rent. Additional furniture deposit allowed if furniture value exceeds $5,000. Return within 20 days after termination or receiving forwarding address. Penalty: 2x amount wrongfully withheld plus attorney fees.
Check Your Lease Against Rhode Island Law
Not sure whether your lease complies with Rhode Island law? Upload it and our analyzer flags problem clauses — deposit terms, entry rights, fees and prohibited provisions — using the same statute-backed database this page is generated from.
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More Rhode Island lease law guides
Educational information generated from state statute data — not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island for your specific situation.