Rhode Island Deposit Itemization Law at a Glance
Governing Statute
R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 — Security Deposits
Itemization Requirement
Your landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions within 20 calendar days after termination of tenancy.
Allowable Deductions
Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
Normal Wear & Tear
Deterioration from normal use of the premises by the tenant.
Penalty for Wrongful Withholding
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, 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
- Landlord must return deposit within 20 days
- Double damages for wrongful retention
What Your Rhode Island Dispute Letter Includes
Every letter is built from Rhode Island's actual statute — not a generic template.
Itemization Requirements
R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 cited by section number. Your landlord sees you know the specific rules they must follow.
Disputed Deductions
Each disputed charge identified with your specific reasons, tied to Rhode Island law.
Wear & Tear Standard
Deterioration from normal use of the premises by the tenant...
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Rhode Island Deposit Itemization FAQ
What are the security deposit itemization requirements in Rhode Island?
Under R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19, your landlord is required to provide an itemized statement of deductions within 20 calendar days after termination of tenancy. The itemization must list each deduction, the amount, and the reason.
What deductions can my Rhode Island landlord legally take from my deposit?
In Rhode Island, allowable deductions are limited to: Unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot deduct for normal wear and tear.
What counts as normal wear and tear in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island: Deterioration from normal use of the premises by the tenant. Examples include minor scuffs on walls, worn carpet from foot traffic, faded paint, and small nail holes.
What happens if my Rhode Island landlord wrongfully withholds my deposit?
If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit or fails to provide proper itemization, 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.
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 dispute deposit deductions in Rhode Island?
No. A dispute letter is a formal written challenge, not a lawsuit. You can send one yourself. Our tool generates a Rhode Island-specific dispute letter citing R.I. Gen. Laws §34-18-19 and your state's itemization requirements so your landlord knows you understand your rights.
Deposit Itemization Dispute Letters by State
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