reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-39. - Failure to maintain.

§ 34-18-39. Failure to maintain.
If there is noncompliance by tenant with § 34-18-24 materially affecting health and safety that can be remedied by repair, replacement of a damaged item, or cleaning, and the tenant fails to comply as promptly as conditions require in case of emergency or within twenty (20) days after written notice by the landlord specifying the breach and requesting that the tenant remedy it within that period of time, the landlord may enter the dwelling unit and cause the work to be done in a skilled manner and submit the itemized bill for the actual and reasonable cost or the fair and reasonable value thereof as rent on the next date periodic rent is due, or if the rental agreement has terminated, for immediate payment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-40. - Remedies for abandonment.

§ 34-18-40. Remedies for abandonment.
If the tenant abandons the dwelling unit, the landlord shall send a certified letter, return receipt requested, to the tenant’s last known address giving notice that unless a reply is received from the tenant within seven (7) days, the landlord shall re-rent the premises. If the notice is returned as undeliverable, or the tenant fails to contact the landlord within seven (7) days, the landlord shall make reasonable efforts to rent the premises at a fair rental. If the landlord rents the dwelling unit for a term beginning before the expiration of the rental agreement, the tenancy terminates as of the date of the new tenancy. If the landlord fails to use reasonable efforts to rent the dwelling unit at fair rental, or if the landlord accepts the abandonment as a surrender, the rental agreement is deemed to be terminated by the landlord as of the date the landlord has notice of the abandonment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-41. - Waiver of landlord’s right to terminate.

§ 34-18-41. Waiver of landlord’s right to terminate.
Acceptance of rent with knowledge of a default by the tenant or acceptance of performance by him or her that varies from the terms of the rental agreement constitutes a waiver of the landlord’s right to terminate the rental agreement for that breach, unless the landlord gives written notice within ten (10) days. However, acceptance of partial payment of rent shall not constitute a waiver of the balance due. Acceptance does not waive the landlord’s right to seek remedies for the default.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2; P.L. 1997, ch. 95, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-42. - Landlord liens — Distraint for rent abolished.

§ 34-18-42. Landlord liens — Distraint for rent abolished.
(a)
A lien or security interest on behalf of the landlord in the tenant’s household goods is not enforceable unless perfected before the effective date of this chapter, except as provided in § 34-18-50.
(b)
Distraint for rent is abolished.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-43. - Remedy after termination.

§ 34-18-43. Remedy after termination.
If the rental agreement is terminated, the landlord has a claim for possession, for a sum for reasonable use and occupation subsequent to the termination, and for actual damages for breach of the rental agreement and reasonable attorney’s fees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-44. - Self-help recovery of possession prohibited.

§ 34-18-44. Self-help recovery of possession prohibited.
A landlord may not recover or take possession of the dwelling unit by action or otherwise, including willful diminution of services to the tenant by interrupting or causing the interruption of heat, running water, hot water, electric, gas, or other essential service to the tenant, except in case of abandonment, surrender, or as permitted in this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-45. - Landlord and tenant remedies for abuse of access.

§ 34-18-45. Landlord and tenant remedies for abuse of access.
(a)
If the tenant refuses to allow lawful access, the landlord may obtain injunctive relief to compel access, or terminate the rental agreement.
(b)
If the landlord makes an unlawful entry or a lawful entry in an unreasonable manner or makes repeated demands for entry otherwise lawful but which have the effect of unreasonably harassing the tenant, the tenant may obtain injunctive relief to prevent the recurrence of the conduct or terminate the rental agreement.
(c)
In any action under subsection (a) or (b) the prevailing party may recover actual damages and shall be awarded costs and reasonable attorney’s fees.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-46. - Retaliatory conduct prohibited.

§ 34-18-46. Retaliatory conduct prohibited.
(a)
Except as provided in this section, a landlord may not retaliate by increasing rent or decreasing services or by bringing or threatening to bring an action for possession because:
(1)
The tenant has complained to a governmental agency charged with responsibility for enforcement of a building or housing code of a violation applicable to the premises materially affecting health and safety; or
(2)
The tenant has complained to the landlord of a violation under § 34-18-22; or
(3)
The tenant has organized or become a member of a tenants’ union or similar organization; or
(4)
The tenant has availed himself or herself of any other lawful rights and remedies.
(b)
If the landlord acts in violation of subsection (a), the tenant is entitled to the remedies provided in § 34-18-34 and has a defense in any retaliatory action against him or her for possession. In an action by or against the tenant, evidence of a complaint within six (6) months before the alleged act of retaliation creates a presumption that the landlord’s conduct was in retaliation. The presumption does not arise if the tenant made the complaint after notice of a proposed rental increase or diminution of services. “Presumption” means that the trier of fact must find the existence of the fact presumed unless and until evidence is introduced which would support a finding of its nonexistence.
(c)
Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (b), a landlord may bring an action for possession if:
(1)
The violation of the applicable building or housing code was caused primarily by lack of reasonable care by the tenant, a member of his or her family, or other person on the premises with his or her consent; or
(2)
The tenant is in default in rent; or
(3)
Compliance with the applicable building or housing code or other public action such as eminent domain, requires alteration, remodeling, or demolition which would effectively deprive the tenant of use of the dwelling unit, and the relocation requirements have been met by the municipality.
(d)
The maintenance of an action under subsection (c) of this section does not release the landlord from liability under § 34-18-28(b).
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-48. - Execution.

§ 34-18-48. Execution.
If no appeal is claimed, and if the judgment has not been satisfied, execution shall be issued on the sixth (6th) day following judgment. Executions shall be issued to the division of sheriffs or certified constable. Every execution issued by any district court pursuant to this chapter shall continue in full force and effect for one year after the date thereof and be returnable to the district court that issued it in accordance with the provisions of § 9-25-21. All costs, including reasonable moving costs, incurred by the division of sheriffs or certified constable in carrying out the mandates of the execution may be added to the execution by the clerk upon approval of the court upon presentment of evidence of the costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2; P.L. 1990, ch. 224, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 300, § 1; P.L. 2003, ch. 311, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 65; P.L. 2015, ch. 260, § 34; P.L. 2015, ch. 275, § 34.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-49. - Payment of rent on stay of execution.

§ 34-18-49. Payment of rent on stay of execution.
Whenever, in any action for the recovery of real property, the issuance of an execution, or the service of an execution, is stayed by order of the court or by the operation of law, the stay shall be conditioned upon the payment by tenant to the landlord of sums of money equal to the rent for the premises, which sums shall be paid at such times and in such amounts as rent would be due and payable were the action not then pending. The acceptance of these sums shall not constitute a waiver of the right of the landlord to obtain possession of the premises, nor shall the receipt thereof be deemed to reinstate the tenancy.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-50. - Payment of moving costs required.

§ 34-18-50. Payment of moving costs required.
Whenever the personal property of any tenant is removed from the premises the tenant occupies by mandate of an execution from the court of competent jurisdiction, the tenant shall pay the entire amount of the cost of moving the personal property and any prepaid storage charges to the division of sheriffs, constable, or other person who lawfully caused the personal property to be so moved before the personal property can be released to the tenant by the person, firm, partnership, company, association, or corporation having lawful possession of the property. Further, the division of sheriffs, constable, or other person who lawfully caused the personal property to be so moved shall prepare and deliver a release in writing stating that the costs of moving and any prepaid storage charges have been paid in full and authorizing the release of the personal property to the tenant. This amount shall be paid to the landlord as reimbursement for the costs of removing the personal property.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 65.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-51. - Issuance of execution on nonpayment of rent.

§ 34-18-51. Issuance of execution on nonpayment of rent.
In the event that the tenant shall fail or refuse to pay all sums promptly when due in accordance with the provisions of § 34-18-49, the court in which the judgment for possession was issued shall, on motion of the landlord and after hearing thereon, including satisfactory proof of such nonpayment, enter an order for the issuance of such execution and the prompt service thereof, and from this order there shall be no appeal.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-52. - Payment of rent during pendency of appeal.

§ 34-18-52. Payment of rent during pendency of appeal.
Whenever an action for the recovery of real property is pending on appeal in the superior or supreme court, the tenant in the action shall pay to the landlord sums of money equal to the rent for the premises, which the sums shall be paid at such times and in such amounts as rent would be due and payable were the action not then pending. The acceptance of these sums shall not constitute a waiver of the right of the landlord to obtain possession of the premises, nor shall their receipt be deemed to reinstate the tenancy.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-53. - Dismissal of appeal for nonpayment of rent during pendency of appeals.

§ 34-18-53. Dismissal of appeal for nonpayment of rent during pendency of appeals.
In the event that the tenant fails or refuses to pay all sums promptly when due, in accordance with the provisions of § 34-18-52, the court in which the case is pending, shall, without any trial on the merits, on motion of the landlord, and after hearing thereon, including satisfactory proof of such nonpayment, enter an order for the entry of judgment and the issuance of the execution and the prompt service thereof, and from that order there shall be no appeal. The papers shall be forthwith returned to the district court which shall upon payment of the required fee, issue an execution without further delay.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2; P.L. 2001, ch. 75, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-54. - Savings clause.

§ 34-18-54. Savings clause.
Transactions entered into before January 1, 1987, and not extended or renewed on and after that date, and the rights, duties and interests flowing from them remain valid and may be terminated, completed, consummated, or enforced as required or permitted by any statute or other law amended or repealed by this chapter as though the repeal or amendment had not occurred.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-55. - Severability.

§ 34-18-55. Severability.
If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or application of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this chapter are severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-57. - Providence and Warwick Absentee Landlord Enforcement Act.

§ 34-18-57. Providence and Warwick Absentee Landlord Enforcement Act.
All persons, corporations, organizations, associations or other legal entities owning and leasing property in the cities of Providence or Warwick shall register their names, home addresses, including zip codes, and telephone numbers with the city clerk in the city where such property is located.
History of Section.
P.L. 1995, ch. 336, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 236, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 465, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-59. - Fair limitation on rental application fees. [Effective January 1, 2024.]

§ 34-18-59. Fair limitation on rental application fees. [Effective January 1, 2024.]
(a)
A landlord, lessor, sub-lessor, real estate broker, property management company, or designee shall not be allowed to require or demand any prospective tenant to pay for a rental application fee.
(b)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a landlord, lessor, sub-lessor, real estate broker, property management company, or designee from requiring an official state criminal background check from the bureau of criminal identification (BCI), department of attorney general, state police or local police department where the prospective tenant resides or from requiring a credit check subject to the following limitations:
(1)
If a prospective tenant provides a required official state criminal background check or credit report issued within ninety (90) days of the application for a rental unit, no fee for such official state criminal background check and/or credit report may be charged by the respective landlord, lessor, sub-lessor, real estate broker, property management company, or designee;
(2)
If a prospective tenant does not provide a required official state background check and/or credit report issued within ninety (90) days of the application for a rental unit, then the landlord, lessor, sub-lessor, real estate broker, property management company, or designee may charge the prospective tenant a fee representing not more than the actual cost of obtaining the official state background check and/or credit report. Provided further, any prospective tenant who is charged a fee under this subsection for a background check or credit report shall be provided with a copy of the background check or credit report; and
(3)
Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the landlord, lessor, sub-lessor, real estate broker, property management company, or designee from obtaining an independent background check or credit report at the landlord’s own expense.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 319, § 1, effective January 1, 2024; P.L. 2023, ch. 320, § 1, effective January 1, 2024.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act › Section 34-18-60. - Sealing and unsealing of court files. [Effective January 1, 2024.]

§ 34-18-60. Sealing and unsealing of court files. [Effective January 1, 2024.]
(a)
Actions arising under §§ 34-18-35, 34-18-36, and 34-18-38 may be sealed by the court upon motion by any party or parties filed at least thirty (30) days after the expiration of the appeal period following the conclusion of the underlying civil action.
(b)
In ruling on the motion to seal, the court shall grant the motion and seal the record of the civil action upon a finding that the underlying civil action was dismissed as a result of a motion to dismiss, the action was resolved by stipulation and the terms of the stipulation have been satisfied by the parties, any monetary judgment against the moving party has been satisfied in full, or the action has been dismissed for lack of prosecution after a five-year (5) period. The court shall also make a finding that the moving party notified all parties to the underlying civil action of their motion to seal the record and that motion is the only request made under this section by the moving party within the previous five (5) years.
(c)
Any party to an action arising under §§ 34-18-35, 34-18-36, and 34-18-38 may file a motion to seal the record of the action upon satisfaction of the requirements set forth in subsections (a) and (b) of this section. Parties requesting seal of their record under this section are limited to one request every five (5) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 2023, ch. 362, § 1, effective January 1, 2024.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-1. - Purpose.

§ 34-18.1-1. Purpose.
This chapter shall apply to all commercial properties and other estates, excluding residential properties governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, chapter 18 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-2. - Quitting by tenants at will or by sufferance on notice.

§ 34-18.1-2. Quitting by tenants at will or by sufferance on notice.
Tenants of lands or tenements at will or by sufferance covered by this chapter shall quit upon notice in writing from the landlord at the day named therein.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-3. - Liability of tenants by sufferance for rent.

§ 34-18.1-3. Liability of tenants by sufferance for rent.
Persons in possession of lands or tenements covered by this chapter as tenants by sufferance shall be liable to pay rent for such time as they may occupy or detain the same.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-4. - Quitting by tenants by parol from year to year.

§ 34-18.1-4. Quitting by tenants by parol from year to year.
Tenants by parol of lands, buildings, or parts of buildings covered by this chapter, from year to year, shall quit at the end of the year upon notice in writing from the landlord given at least three (3) months prior to the expiration of the occupation year.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-5. - Quitting by tenants by parol for less than one year.

§ 34-18.1-5. Quitting by tenants by parol for less than one year.
Tenants by parol of lands, buildings, or parts of buildings covered by this chapter, for any term less than a year, shall quit at the end of the term upon notice in writing from the landlord, given at least half the period of the term, but not exceeding three (3) months, prior to the expiration of the term.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-6. - Notice of termination by tenant.

§ 34-18.1-6. Notice of termination by tenant.
To terminate leases at will or by sufferance or by parol covered by this chapter, like notice shall be given by the tenant, if he or she would quit of the same, as is prescribed to be given by the landlord. The notice shall have the same effect, for all purposes, as if given by the landlord to the tenant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-7. - Time of termination of letting.

§ 34-18.1-7. Time of termination of letting.
The time agreed upon in a definite letting covered by this chapter shall be the time of the termination thereof for all purposes; and if no time of termination has been agreed upon, it shall be deemed a letting from award year; provided, however, that in any case of a letting at a certain rate per month without any reference as to time, the letting shall be deemed a letting from month to month; and provided, further, that in any case of a letting at a certain rate per week without any other reference as to time, the letting shall be deemed a letting from week to week.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-8. - Surrender of premises damaged by fire or storm — Adjustment of rent.

§ 34-18.1-8. Surrender of premises damaged by fire or storm — Adjustment of rent.
Where any leased or occupied tenement or other building covered by this chapter is destroyed by fire, hurricane or other cause, or is condemned by any state or municipal authority as unfit for occupancy, the lessee or occupant may, if the destruction or damage occurred without his or her fault or neglect, quit and surrender possession of the leasehold premises and of the land so leased or occupied upon giving written notice to the lessor or owner of his or her intention to quit; and he or she is not liable to pay to the lessor or owner rent for the time subsequent to the surrender of the premises. Any rent paid in advance or which may have accrued by the terms of the lease or any other hiring shall be adjusted to the date of the surrender of the leasehold premises.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-9. - Delinquency in rent — Repossession by ejectment — Judgment.

§ 34-18.1-9. Delinquency in rent — Repossession by ejectment — Judgment.
(a)
All suits for possession of lands, buildings or parts of buildings covered by this chapter shall be by the ordinary process of actions for possession or otherwise as provided by law.
(b)(1)
If, in any case of a letting covered by this chapter, whether by writing or parol, the stipulated rent, or any part of the same, be due and in arrear for a period of fifteen (15) days, whether demanded or not, the landlord or reversioner wishing to repossess him or herself of the lands, building or parts of buildings let, or recover possession of the same from the tenant, or any person holding under him or her, shall, without the necessity of notice, institute a trespass and action for possession in the district court where the premises are situated, and in this action the court may award a plaintiff judgment for possession and for all rent due plus costs.
(2)
For cause shown the justice of the district court may issue a special order providing for the method of service of process upon the defendant.
(3)
Answer to the summons and complaint shall be made within seven (7) days of the service upon the defendant. The action shall be heard on the next court day following the seven (7) day period, and shall take precedence on the calendar. If no answer is filed within the time prescribed, judgment shall enter forthwith.
(4)
Any aggrieved party may appeal to the superior court from a judgment of the district court by claiming such appeal in writing filed with the clerk within forty-eight (48) hours, exclusive of Sundays and legal holidays, after the judgment is entered.
(5)
All such court actions shall have precedence on the calendar and shall continue to have precedence on the calendar on a day-to-day basis until the matter is heard.
(c)(1)
Executions shall be issued only to the division of sheriffs or constable of the county where the premises are situated and he or she shall execute the mandates therein contained within twenty (20) days of its issuance. If the member of the division of sheriffs or constable fails to execute the mandates within the prescribed time, the member of the division of sheriffs or constable shall appear before a justice of the court issuing the execution at the regular session of the court next following the twenty (20) days to show cause why the mandates of the execution have not been carried out.
(2)
All costs, including reasonable moving costs incurred by the member of the division of sheriffs or constable in carrying out the mandates of the execution may be added to the execution by the clerk upon approval of the court upon presentment of evidence of the costs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 3; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 9; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 66.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-10. - Liability of person in possession for rent on land held.

§ 34-18.1-10. Liability of person in possession for rent on land held.
Every person in possession of land covered by this chapter out of which rent is due shall be liable for the just amount or proportion of the rent due from the land in his or her possession, although it is only a part of what was originally demised.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-11. - Action by or against executors or administrators for arrears of rent.

§ 34-18.1-11. Action by or against executors or administrators for arrears of rent.
An action may be brought by or against executors and administrators, for any arrears of rent accrued in the lifetime of the deceased parties respectively, in the same manner as for debts due from or to the same parties in their lifetime on a personal contract.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-12. - Other legal remedies for recovery of rents preserved.

§ 34-18.1-12. Other legal remedies for recovery of rents preserved.
Nothing contained in §§ 34-18.1-9 — 34-18.1-11 shall deprive landlords of any other legal remedy for the recovery of their rents, whether secured to them by lease or by provision of law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-13. - Apportionment of rent on termination of lease.

§ 34-18.1-13. Apportionment of rent on termination of lease.
When lands covered by this chapter are held by lease of a person who has an estate therein determinable on a life or on a contingency, and such estate determines before the end of a period for which rent is payable, or when an estate, created by a written lease or by operation of the provisions of this chapter, is determined before the end of such a period by surrender, either expressed or by operation of law, by notice to quit, or for nonpayment of rent, or by the death of any party, the landlord, or his or her executors and administrators, may recover a proportional part of such rent according to the time expired, at such determination, of the last period for which such rent was growing due.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-14. - Recovery of prepaid rent on termination of tenancy.

§ 34-18.1-14. Recovery of prepaid rent on termination of tenancy.
Upon the termination of a tenancy covered by this chapter in any manner mentioned in § 34-18.1-13 before the end of the period for which rent is payable, if the rent for the period has been paid, the portion of the period then unexpired may be recovered back; however, the termination shall not have occurred by reason of any default of the person claiming to recover the rent.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-15. - Right of “self help” prohibited.

§ 34-18.1-15. Right of “self help” prohibited.
The right of a landlord or a reversioner to utilize “self help”, whether pursuant to the common law or pursuant to any agreement in writing or by parol, to reenter and repossess him or herself of land, buildings or parts of buildings leased covered by this chapter upon nonpayment of rent, is prohibited.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 8; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-16. - Payment of rent on stay of execution.

§ 34-18.1-16. Payment of rent on stay of execution.
Whenever the issuance of an execution for the recovery of real property covered by this chapter, or the service of an execution, is stayed by order of the court or by the operation of law, the stay shall be conditioned upon the payment, by the defendant or defendants to the plaintiff or plaintiffs in such actions, of sums of money equal to the rent for the premises, which sums shall be paid at the times and in the amounts as rent would be due and payable were the action not then pending. The acceptance of moneys shall not constitute a waiver of the right of the plaintiff or plaintiffs to obtain possession of the premises, nor shall the receipt thereof be deemed to reinstate the defendant or defendants as a tenant.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-17. - Issuance of execution on nonpayment of rent.

§ 34-18.1-17. Issuance of execution on nonpayment of rent.
In the event that the defendant or defendants shall fail or refuse to pay all sums promptly when due, in accordance with the provisions of § 34-18.1-16, the court in which the judgment for possession was issued shall, on motion of the plaintiff or plaintiffs, and hearing thereon, including satisfactory proof of the nonpayment, enter an order for the issuance of execution and the prompt service thereof, and from that order there shall be no appeal.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-18. - Payment of rent during pendency of appeal.

§ 34-18.1-18. Payment of rent during pendency of appeal.
Whenever an action for the recovery of real property covered by this chapter shall be pending on appeal in the superior or supreme court, the defendant or defendants in the action shall pay to the plaintiff or plaintiffs sums of money equal to the rent for the premises, which sums shall be paid at such times and in such amounts as rent would be due and payable were the action then not pending. The acceptance of this money shall not constitute a waiver of the right of the plaintiff or plaintiffs to obtain possession of the premises, nor shall the receipt thereof be deemed to reinstate the defendant or defendants as tenants.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 287, § 15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-19. - Order of judgment on nonpayment of rent in pending appeals.

§ 34-18.1-19. Order of judgment on nonpayment of rent in pending appeals.
In the event that the defendant or defendants shall fail or refuse to pay all sums promptly when due, in accordance with the provisions of § 34-18.1-18, the court in which the case is pending, shall, without any trial on the merits, on motion of the plaintiff or plaintiffs, and hearing thereon, including satisfactory proof of the nonpayment, enter an order for the entry of judgment and the issuance of execution and the prompt service thereof, and from that order there shall be no appeal. The papers shall be forthwith returned to the district court which shall, upon payment of the required fee, issue an execution without further delay.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 75, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.1 - Commercial Leasing and Other Estates › Section 34-18.1-20. - Removal of persons in tourist camps.

§ 34-18.1-20. Removal of persons in tourist camps.
Notwithstanding the provisions of § 34-18-8(4), all persons keeping tourist camps as defined under § 44-18-7(11), including campgrounds, may remove or cause to be removed from such establishment any guest remaining in a rental unit in violation of an agreed upon departure time and date by notifying such guest that the establishment no longer desires to entertain him or her and requesting that he or she immediately leave. Any guest who remains or attempts to remain in a rental unit after being so requested to leave shall be guilty of a civil violation of this section. Any law enforcement officer of this state, upon the request of the operator of the same, shall assist in the abatement of the violation.
History of Section.
P.L. 1989, ch. 507, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.2 - Leased Land Dwellings › Section 34-18.2-1. - Purpose.

§ 34-18.2-1. Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to ensure the property rights of individuals who own residential dwelling located on leased lands.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 567, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.2 - Leased Land Dwellings › Section 34-18.2-2. - Definitions.

§ 34-18.2-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following words shall have the following meanings:
(1)
“Homeowner” shall mean and include any person, corporation, partnership or association owning a residential dwelling which is located on leased land.
(2)
“Land owner” shall mean and include any person, corporation, partnership or association owning land which is leased to another or others whereon there is situated a residential dwelling or dwellings.
(3)
“Leased land” shall mean and include any land owned by any person, corporation, partnership or association upon which there is situated a leased residential dwelling owned by any person, corporation, partnership or association other than the owner of the land.
(4)
“Residential dwelling” shall mean and include any structure located on leased land and used primarily for residential purposes.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 567, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.2 - Leased Land Dwellings › Section 34-18.2-4. - Termination of lease.

§ 34-18.2-4. Termination of lease.
(a)
A landowner desiring to terminate a tenancy with a homeowner based on the discontinuation of the use of the leased land as leased land (and not for cause) shall provide the affected homeowner(s) with at least fifteen (15) months’ notice thereof.
(b)
In the event of a termination of a tenancy (or a failure to renew a tenancy) with a homeowner without cause as provided in subsection (a) of this section, or in the event of a termination (or a failure to renew a tenancy) for cause, the landowner shall take reasonable steps to take control of any residential dwelling remaining on the leased land following said termination, and shall, upon at least ninety (90) days of said advertising sell the dwelling pursuant to commercially reasonable terms. The proceeds of such sale shall be applied as follows:
(1)
First, to satisfy any federal, state or local liens on the dwelling;
(2)
Second, to cover the fair and reasonable costs incurred by the landowner to secure the dwelling and accomplish its sale;
(3)
Third, to satisfy any arrearages for unpaid rent or other costs remaining due under the tenancy;
(4)
Fourth, to satisfy any mortgage or other liens on the property; then
(5)
The balance shall be remitted to the homeowner.
(c)
During the aforesaid ninety (90) day notice period, the homeowner may avert the advertising and sale of the dwelling by the landowner as aforesaid, by satisfying any arrearages for unpaid rent or other costs remaining due under the tenancy, and causing the dwelling to be removed from the formerly leased land, by sale or otherwise.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 254, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 281, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.2 - Leased Land Dwellings › Section 34-18.2-5. - Rent increases for leased land.

§ 34-18.2-5. Rent increases for leased land.
(a)
A landowner, as defined in § 34-18.2-2, shall give the homeowner sixty (60) days’ written notice prior to any lot rent increase. The written notice shall set forth the current rent, the proposed rent, and the date upon which the increase shall take effect.
(b)
If a homeowner or a homeowners’ association, having, the power and authority to negotiate rental terms on behalf of member homeowners, believes that the rent increase is “excessive” as defined in this section, the homeowner or authorized homeowners’ association may submit the matter to binding arbitration pursuant to chapter 3 of title 10. In the event the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator, an arbitrator shall be appointed in the manner set forth in chapter 3 of title 10. The costs and expenses of the arbitrator shall be borne equally by the landowner and the homeowner or authorized homeowners’ association.
(c)
An “excessive” rent increase, for purposes of this section, is an increase which unreasonably exceeds the fair rental value of the property based on market conditions at the time.
(d)
The arbitrator shall promptly hear the dispute and render a decision based on the “excessive” rent increase standard as set forth in this section.
(e)
No lot rent increase shall go into effect until the earlier of:
(1)
Completion of the binding arbitration process; or
(2)
Ninety (90) days after the written notice given under subsection (a) of this section.
(f)
This section shall not apply to chapter 31 of title 44.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 254, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 281, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-18.2 - Leased Land Dwellings › Section 34-18.2-6. - Leased land exempt.

§ 34-18.2-6. Leased land exempt.
The provisions of §§ 34-18-2.4 and 34-18-2.5 of this chapter shall not apply to any landowner who holds a recreation facility license under chapter 21 of title 23, or a trailer park or campground license issued by the municipality in which it is located or leased land that is leased to at least ninety percent (90%) of the homeowners on a seasonal basis.
History of Section.
P.L. 2014, ch. 254, § 2; P.L. 2014, ch. 281, § 2; P.L. 2016, ch. 512, art. 1, § 21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-19 - Forcible Entry and Detainer › Section 34-19-1. - Warrant for summons of jury.

§ 34-19-1. Warrant for summons of jury.
Whenever a complaint shall be made in writing and under oath of the complainant, or of some one in his or her behalf, to a justice of the superior court, that any person has made unlawful and forcible entry into lands or tenements, and with a strong hand detains the lands or tenements, or that, having made lawful and peaceable entry, or peaceable entry, into lands or tenements, any person unlawfully and with force holds and detains them, the court shall make out a warrant under its hand and seal, directed to the sheriff of the county in which the lands or tenements lie, or to his or her deputy, commanding him or her in behalf of the state to cause to come before the superior court, at such time and place as the court shall appoint within the county, twelve (12) good and lawful men or women of the same county, which warrant shall be in the following form:
THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND.
SC.
(SEAL) To the sheriff of the county of .......... or .......... to his or her deputy, .......... Greeting:
Whereas complaint is made to me, the subscriber, by .......... of .......... that .......... of .......... upon the .......... day of .......... at ...... with force and arms and with a strong hand did unlawfully and forcibly enter into and upon a tract of land of him or her .......... in .......... aforesaid .......... containing .......... acres, bounded as follows, viz.: (or, into the messuage or tenement of him or her, .......... as the case may be, describing it) and him or her .......... with force and a strong hand as aforesaid did expel and unlawfully put out of possession of the same (or, as the case may be, that having made lawful and peaceable entry, or peaceable entry, such person unlawfully and with force holds and detains him or her .......... out of the same), you are hereby commanded in behalf of the state to cause to come before our superior court, upon the ...... day of .......... at ...... o’clock ( : ) in the ...... noon at .......... in the county of .......... twelve (12) good and lawful men or women of your county to be impaneled and sworn, to inquire into the forcible entry and detainer (or forcible detainer, as the case may be), as aforedescribed.
Given under my hand and seal the ...... day of .......... in the year ...... .
Justice of the superior court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1533, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 340, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 391, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 591, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 34-19-1; P.L. 2021, ch. 77, § 15, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 78, § 15, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-19 - Forcible Entry and Detainer › Section 34-19-2. - Issuance of summons to defendant.

§ 34-19-2. Issuance of summons to defendant.
The court shall also make out a summons to the party complained against in the form following:
THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND.
SC.
(SEAL) To the sheriff of the county of .......... or .......... to his or her deputy, .......... Greeting:
We command you that you summon .......... of .......... to appear before our superior court at .......... in our county of .......... on the ...... day of .......... at .......... o’clock ( : ) in the .......... noon, then and there to answer to and defend against the complaint of .......... there exhibited: .......... wherein .......... complains that (here recite the complaint); and you are to make return of this writ with your doings thereon unto our the court upon or before the such day.
Given under my hand and seal, the ...... day of .......... in the year ...... .
Justice of the superior court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1533, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 340, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 391, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 591, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 34-19-2; P.L. 2021, ch. 77, § 15, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 78, § 15, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-19 - Forcible Entry and Detainer › Section 34-19-3. - Service on defendant — Proceeding on nonappearance.

§ 34-19-3. Service on defendant — Proceeding on nonappearance.
The summons shall be served upon the party complained against, or a copy thereof left at his or her usual place of abode, six (6) days, exclusive, before the day appointed by the justice for the trial; and if, after the service of the summons, the party shall not appear to defend, the court shall proceed to the inquiry in the same manner as if he or she were present.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1533, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 340, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 391, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 591, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 34-19-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-19 - Forcible Entry and Detainer › Section 34-19-4. - Impaneling and oath of jurors.

§ 34-19-4. Impaneling and oath of jurors.
When the jury summoned, or such other jurors as may be taken up on a new venire to be issued by the court if occasion shall require, shall appear, they shall, to the number of twelve (12), be impaneled to inquire into the forcible entry and detainer, or forcible detainer, complained of, and the court shall lay before them the exhibited complaint, and shall administer, or cause to be administered, to them the following oath, to wit:
Foreperson’s Oath.
You, as foreperson of this jury, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that you will well and truly try whether the complaint of
now laid before you is true, according to the evidence; so help you God (or, this affirmation you make and give upon the peril of the penalty of perjury).
The Oath of the Other Jurors.
The same oath which your foreperson has taken on his or her part, you and every one of you will well and truly observe and keep; so help you God (or, this affirmation you make and give upon the peril of the penalty of perjury).
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1533, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 340, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 391, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 591, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 34-19-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 34 - Property › Chapter 34-19 - Forcible Entry and Detainer › Section 34-19-5. - Return of verdict.

§ 34-19-5. Return of verdict.
If, upon a full hearing of the cause, the jury shall find the complaint laid before them supported by the evidence, they shall sign and return to the court their verdict, in form following, to wit:
At a court of inquiry held before one of the justices of the superior court within and for the county of at upon the day of in the year , the jury, upon their oaths, do find that the lands or tenements in aforesaid, bounded (or, described) as follows (as in the complaint), upon the day of in the year were in the lawful and rightful possession of and that did, upon the same day, unlawfully, with force and arms and with a strong hand, enter forcibly into the same, and (or, being lawfully upon the same) did unlawfully, with force and a strong hand, hold and keep out and that he or she still continues wrongfully to detain the possession from him or her, : whereupon the jury find, upon their oaths aforesaid, that ought to have restitution thereof without delay.
History of Section.
P.L. 1908, ch. 1533, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 340, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 391, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 591, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 34-19-5.