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Rhode Island security deposit law: deadline, deductions and penalties

Quick answer

In Rhode Island, a landlord has 20 days to return the security deposit or send an itemized list of deductions (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19). Under Rhode Island law, a landlord who wrongfully keeps a deposit can owe up to three times the amount withheld.

Checked against the statute on October 29, 2026.

20

days for a Rhode Island landlord to return the deposit or itemize deductions

The deadline

Within 20 days after the later of the tenancy ending, the tenant delivering possession or giving a forwarding address, the landlord must return the deposit with an itemized notice of deductions.

What the landlord must send you

An itemized written notice of all deductions, delivered with the amount owed.

Penalty for wrongful withholding

A tenant may recover the deposit owed plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19(c)).

Your forwarding address

Rhode Island's 20 days can run from when you give a forwarding address. The letter includes yours.

Read the law

Summary checked against the statute on October 29, 2026. Not legal advice; laws change, so confirm with the source before relying on it.

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Did the landlord send you a written, itemized list of deductions?

Rhode Island security deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in Rhode Island?

Within 20 days after the later of the tenancy ending, the tenant delivering possession or giving a forwarding address, the landlord must return the deposit with an itemized notice of deductions.

What must a Rhode Island landlord send when keeping part of the deposit?

An itemized written notice of all deductions, delivered with the amount owed.

What is the penalty for wrongfully keeping a security deposit in Rhode Island?

A tenant may recover the deposit owed plus damages equal to twice the amount wrongfully withheld, and reasonable attorney's fees (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19(c)).

Do I need to give my Rhode Island landlord a forwarding address?

Rhode Island's 20 days can run from when you give a forwarding address. The letter includes yours.

How do I get my security deposit back in Rhode Island?

Give your landlord a forwarding address in writing, wait for the 20 days deadline, then send a demand letter by certified mail that cites R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19 and sets a payment date. If the landlord still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court in the county where the rental is located.

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