“Rental agreement” means all agreements, written or oral, embodying terms and conditions concerning the use and occupancy of a dwelling unit and premises. [3]
As of January 1, 2024, Rhode Island law prohibits landlords, brokers, property managers, or designees from charging any rental application fee—including background checks, credit reports, screenings, or administrative fees. [1]
Landlords may only charge applicants for the actual cost of an official state criminal background check or credit report if the applicant does *not* provide their own reports dated within 90 days. If the landlord charges for these costs, they must provide a copy of the report to the applicant. [1][2]
If an applicant is charged for a background or credit report, the landlord is required to furnish the applicant with a copy of that report. [1]
Under Rhode Island law, landlords may charge a security deposit **up to one (1) month’s rent** only. [3]
Despite the law, some landlords attempt to charge “application” or viewing fees. Tenants report:
“Application fees are pretty common, but that’s for once you’ve seen the place…and it’s now illegal for landlords to charge application fees.”
And:
“Landlords are now charging $35 background checks…Should not be passed on to tenants.”
If you encounter unexpected fees during the application process, this may violate state law — Rhode Island’s Attorney General has taken enforcement actions against noncompliant landlords.
