Limits the mandatory rental registry to properties constructed prior to 1978, and further push out the effective date of registration to September 1, 2025, with the penalty clause becoming effective as of October 1, 2025.
Summary
Bill S0718 aims to amend the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in Rhode Island, specifically focusing on the mandatory rental registry. The bill limits the requirement for landlords to register rental properties to those constructed prior to 1978. The effective date of the registration requirement has been pushed to September 1, 2025, with penalties for non-compliance not to come into effect until October 1, 2025. This approach is intended to alleviate the initial burden on landlords while ensuring that older rental properties, which may pose lead hazards, are monitored effectively.
The legislation mandates that landlords of qualifying properties must register various details with the Department of Health, including their contact information and necessary property management details. Additionally, they are required to provide a valid certificate of conformance for lead hazard mitigation or prove their exemption from this requirement. This emphasizes the state’s commitment to addressing health risks associated with older properties, particularly those that might expose tenants to lead poisoning.
One notable change introduced in S0718 is the clause that prevents landlords from initiating eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent unless they are compliant with the registration provisions. This stipulation indicates a protective measure for tenants, ensuring that they are not threatened with eviction without the landlord being accountable for property registration and health standards. The cumulative intention is to ensure that tenant protections are in place while maintaining stringent requirements for landlords managing potentially hazardous properties.
The bill has garnered mixed reactions among stakeholders. Supporters argue that it reinforces health standards for residents in aging rental units and promotes responsible property management. However, some landlords express concerns regarding the regulatory burden and potential penalties for non-compliance. The upcoming deadlines for registration and the implications of fines may also become points of contention as the execution date approaches, making it a critical focus for both current discussions and future legislative sessions.
Requires hosting platforms offering short-term rental of residential property for tourist or transient use to disclose on listings the current, valid registration number and its expiration date.
Requires hosting platforms offering short-term rental of residential property for tourist or transient use to disclose on listings the current, valid registration number and its expiration date.
Requires landlords to conduct a radon test of all residential rental properties every five (5) years. Short-term residential rentals would be excluded from radon testing requirements.
Requires hosting platforms offering short-term rental of residential property for tourist or transient use to disclose on listings the current, valid registration number and its expiration date.
Requires hosting platforms offering short-term rental of residential property for tourist or transient use to disclose on listings the current, valid registration number and its expiration date.
Includes non-owner-occupied residential properties used for short-term rentals for tourist or transient use to be assessed as Class 2 properties on or after the assessment date of December 31, 2024.