Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Rhode Island

Security Deposit

I received a letter from my landlord on the 28th of March stating that my rent would increase from 500.00 to 550.00. A quick note, our rent is due on the 27th of each month. Anyways, the letter said we had to either pay that ammount or make arrangements to move out. My wife and I weren't sure we could find a place in time to move out and we were pretty sure we couldn't afford the extra money. We scoured the papers looking for a new place immediately. On April 6th we found an apartment and contacted our present landlord to let her know that we decided to move out per her letter. She said that because we only gave her 21 days notice that she would have to keep our security deposit. We are paid up to April 27th so we haven't stiffed her on any rent. Can she keep the security deposit because of this reason? The apartment has been inspected by her already and keys have been given back. There was no damage to the apartment.


Asked on 4/22/02, 12:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Slepkow Slepkow Slepkow & Associates, Inc.

Re: Security Deposit

Thank you for the email. In Rhode Island, the security deposit can only be kept for accrued rent and damage done to the premises. Due to the fact that you moved out and did not owe any rent you are entitled to your security deposit back if their are no damage done to the apartment. To get you security deposit back you must send her a letter with your forwarding adress requesting return of the deposit. If they still do not return your money you can sue them for triple the amount of your security deposit. Please call me 401-437-1100.

David Slepkow

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Answered on 4/22/02, 12:56 pm


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