Updated January 12, 2024
A Rhode Island rental application is used by landlords seeking to find a qualified tenant for their rental property. The application will include blank fields where the tenant can enter their personal and employment information. After completing, the tenant will sign and return to the landlord. The tenant must then complete any required background and credit checks. Afterward, the landlord will take 1-2 days to approve or reject the application.
Laws
- Application Fee (§ 34-18-59) – Landlords cannot charge prospective tenants a rental application fee, if and when the tenant provides the landlord with any required application-related checks within 90 days of applying.
- If the tenant fails to deliver the reports within 90 days, the landlord may then charge the tenant the actual cost of conducting such check.
- Required Background/Credit Checks (§ 34-18-59) – Landlords may require a credit report or criminal background check from any prospective tenant.
- Security Deposit (§ 34-18-19) – Security deposits requested by landlords may not be more than one (1) month’s rent.