Rhode Island Eviction Notice Templates

A Rhode Island eviction notice is sent to inform a tenant of lease noncompliance. It explains the issue and provides a deadline to cure or vacate. The notice is required before filing an eviction lawsuit.

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Last updated January 26th, 2026

A Rhode Island eviction notice is sent to inform a tenant of lease noncompliance. It explains the issue and provides a deadline to cure or vacate. The notice is required before filing an eviction lawsuit.

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By Type

Pay or Quit – Notifies the tenant of unpaid rent. It explains the next steps if payment isn’t made.

Cure or Quit – Used for fixable lease violations. The tenant is given a chance to comply.

Termination of Month-to-Month Tenancy (30-Day Notice) – Ends a month-to-month rental with notice.

Notice to Quit for Illegal Activity – Applies to criminal conduct tied to the property.

Eviction Laws

  • Non-Payment of Rent: 5 days’ notice, but only after rent is at least 15 days late.[1]
  • Non-Compliance: 20 days.[2]
  • Illegal Activity: No notice required in qualifying cases.[3][4]
  • Termination (Month-to-Month Lease): 30 days.[5]
  • Eviction Lawsuit Type: Forcible Entry and Detainer.[6]
  • Utility Shutoff – A landlord may not cut off utilities as a way to force a tenant to move out without a court order. This type of self-help eviction is expressly prohibited under Rhode Island law.[7]
  • Changing the Locks – Locking a tenant out or otherwise restricting access to the rental unit without completing the court eviction process is illegal and may expose the landlord to penalties.[7]

 

How to Evict a Tenant in Rhode Island (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Provide Written Notice

Before filing anything with the court, the landlord must serve the correct notice and keep proof of delivery.

Step 2: File the Eviction Complaint

If the tenant does not cure the issue or move out, the landlord may file the appropriate complaint with the local District Court. The filing fee is $80.[8]

Step 3: Serve the Tenant

After filing, the tenant must be formally served with the complaint. Once served, the tenant has the right to respond by filing an Answer Defendant/Tenant (DC-53).

Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing

At the hearing, the landlord must prove proper notice, compliance with waiting periods, and continued tenant violation. The tenant may present defenses or contest the eviction.

Step 5: Receive Judgment for Possession

If the court rules in favor of the landlord, a Judgment for Possession will be issued. The tenant then has five days to vacate the property or file an appeal.

Step 6: Obtain Execution for Eviction

If the tenant does not vacate or appeal within five days, the court will issue an execution for eviction, authorizing a constable to remove the tenant within the following five days.

 

Court Forms & Resources

Sources

  1. § 34-18-35(a)
  2. § 34-18-36(c)
  3. § 34-18-24
  4. 34-18-36(f)
  5. § 34-18-37(b)
  6. Chapter 34-19: Forcible Entry and Detainer
  7. Illegal Self-Help Evictions | RI.gov
  8. District Court Filing Fees | Courts.RI.gov