Rhode Island Rental Registry Law & Lead Hazard Mitigation Requirements
Understanding the Rental Registry Law
Rhode Island has introduced a statewide mandatory rental registry to improve housing safety and ensure landlords comply with lead hazard mitigation requirements. If you own rental properties in Rhode Island, understanding these regulations is essential to avoid fines and legal complications.
The Rhode Island Rental Registry requires all landlords to register their rental properties with the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH). This rule applies to all residential rental units, including single-family homes, multifamily buildings, and condominiums.
Key Deadlines & Requirements
For rental properties built before 1978, Rhode Island requires landlords to complete Lead Hazard Mitigation Inspections to protect tenants from lead exposure.
Initial Registration Deadline:
October 1, 2024
New Landlords:
Must register within 30 days of acquiring a rental property or signing a lease
Annual Re-registration:
All landlords must update their property details by October 1 every year
Failure to register can result in monthly fines of $50 per unit and restrictions on eviction rights for non-payment of rent.
Lead Hazard Mitigation Requirements
Do You Need a Lead Hazard Mitigation Inspection?
if,
Your property was built after 1978
You have a Full Lead-Safe Certificate or Conditional Lead-Safe Certificate
Your rental is temporary/seasonal (occupied ≤100 days by the same tenant)
Your unit is designated for residents 62 years or older
if,
your rental property was built before 1978 and does not have a current lead-safe certificate.
What Does the Inspection Cover?
A licensed lead inspector will check for:
- Peeling, chipping, or deteriorating paint
- Lead dust, paint chips, or debris
- Smooth, cleanable surfaces on floors, stairs, and windowsills
- Properly maintained doors, windows, and common areas
Inspectors must access every room and common area. If access is denied, the property will fail the inspection.
Find a licensed lead inspector: health.ri.gov/find/leadinspectors
Do You Need a Lead Hazard Mitigation Inspection?
$125 per unit, per month fine for failing to obtain a lead certificate
Eviction restrictions—landlords cannot remove tenants for non-payment if their unit isn’t registered or lead-safe
Failure to maintain lead hazard control can result in additional state penalties
How to Comply with Rhode Island's Rental Registry & Lead Laws
Register your rental property
on RIDOH’s official Rental Registry portal
Schedule a Lead Hazard Mitigation Inspection
if your property was built before 1978
Ensure lead-safe maintenance
and repaint or repair any deteriorating surfaces
Keep your Certificate
of Lead Conformance for at least 5 years
Don’t leave your family’s health to chance.
By staying compliant, landlords protect tenants, avoid costly fines, and ensure safer rental housing in Rhode Island.
For more information on rental registration and lead safety, visit: