Rhode Island Rent withholding / escrow

Can a tenant withhold rent for repairs in Rhode Island?

There's no stand-alone rent withholding procedure. In an eviction for nonpayment, the tenant may counterclaim for amounts owed under the lease or the Act, and the court may order the tenant to pay into court all or part of the rent accrued and accruing. If no rent remains due after offsetting, judgment for possession goes to the tenant.

Verified Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-32 · last checked 2026-10-15