Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H5446

Introduced

2/12/25

Refer

2/12/25

Caption

Permits a tenant, at the tenant’s expense, to implement energy conservation measures to any dwelling or dwelling unit such as removable weather-stripping around doors and windows.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly enhance tenants' rights concerning property enhancements focused on energy efficiency. By permitting tenants to implement their own energy-saving modifications while allowing them to deduct the associated costs from their rent, the bill aims to promote sustainable living practices in residential spaces. This also reflects a shift in policy toward giving tenants more control over their living conditions and the potential to lower their utility expenses, encouraging an environmentally conscious approach to housing.

Summary

House Bill H5446 proposes amendments to the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act in Rhode Island. The primary focus of the bill is to empower tenants to undertake energy conservation measures in their dwellings at their own expense. Such measures include installing removable weather-stripping, interior storm windows, and insulation wraps around heating units. The bill is structured to facilitate tenants' initiatives toward improving energy efficiency without requiring structural changes to the property, thereby ensuring compliance with local and state regulations.

Contention

While the bill presents various benefits, it may also lead to points of contention between landlords and tenants. Landlords might express concerns about unauthorized modifications to their properties, despite the bill explicitly prohibiting structural changes. There might also be disagreements regarding the diligence and quality of the repairs made by tenants. The balance of interests between tenant empowerment and landlord rights is likely to be a focal point in discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H8173

Permits other residents of residential dwelling unit to extend term of rental agreement for 3 months after death of lessee, however it would not permit temporary tenant to permanent tenancy or rental assistance if transfer of benefits conflicts with law.

RI H7962

Recognizes tenants' unions and provides a procedure whereby the housing resources commission shall administer a hearing process for consolidated complaints filed by tenants' unions, pertaining to the rights and obligations of tenants and landlords.

RI S2921

RI H7162

Permits those other residents of a residential dwelling unit to extend the term of the rental agreement for a period not to exceed three (3) months after the death of the lessee.

RI S2407

Permits those other residents of a residential dwelling unit to extend the term of the rental agreement for a period not to exceed three (3) months after the death of the lessee.

RI S0911

Residential Landlord And Tenant

RI S2417

Creates a tenant bill of rights to the right to counsel, the right to habitability, the right to organize free, the right to be free from discrimination, the right to first refusal if the landlord decides to sell the property, and right to renew lease.

RI H8084

Modifies the summons for eviction for reasons other than nonpayment of rent with the district court, to add a certificate of service section, and provides the option to post the summons/complaint conspicuously on door of the defendant/tenant's dwelling.