RI · TenantClaim
Rhode Island Security Deposit Return Laws & Calculator
Landlords generally have 20 calendar days to return a deposit under Rhode Island General Laws Section 34-18-19. Use the calculator to check overdue status and estimated recovery.
Rhode Island deposit calculator
Statutory math from Rhode Island General Laws Section 34-18-19.
Ready to Calculate Your Rights
Enter your lease dates and deposit amounts to instantly evaluate:
- State statutory return deadline & overdue status
- Treble (3x) or double (2x) bad-faith penalty eligibility
- Small claims court limit & demand letter generation
Bad-faith penalties
A landlord who fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 20 days may be liable for twice the amount of the deposit (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19).
Multiplier: 2x
Wear and tear vs. unlawful deductions
Normal Wear & Tear
Landlord cannot deduct
- Faded or scuffed interior paint from ordinary occupancy in Rhode Island
- Carpet wear or flattening in high-traffic pathways from normal foot traffic
- Small nail or pin holes from hanging pictures or curtains
Unlawful Deductions
These charges are illegal
- Charging for ordinary wear and tear instead of damage beyond normal use under Rhode Island General Laws Section 34-18-19
- Keeping any part of the deposit without sending the required itemized statement within 20 calendar days
- Deducting for conditions that existed before move-in or that the landlord was obligated to repair
Small claims court filing limits
$5,000
Claims above this Rhode Island ceiling may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction to stay in small claims.
View Full Rhode Island Small Claims Court & Official Form GuideRhode Island security deposit FAQ
How long does a Rhode Island landlord have to return my deposit?+
Rhode Island generally requires return within 20 calendar days after move-out under Rhode Island General Laws Section 34-18-19. If the deadline falls on a weekend, TenantClaim rolls it to the next Monday.
What happens if the landlord keeps my deposit in bad faith?+
A landlord who fails to return the deposit or provide an itemized list within 20 days may be liable for twice the amount of the deposit (R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-19).
What is the Rhode Island small claims limit?+
Most tenants can file in small claims court for up to $5,000. Larger recoveries may need District or Civil Court, or a voluntary reduction of the claim.
Does the landlord have to send an itemized list?+
Yes. Rhode Island requires an itemized deduction statement. Withholding money without that statement is a common unlawful deduction.