Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Rhode Island
Property Demage
Our tenants were under a year lease and they did not pay the last month rent, they used the security deposit.
They have left us with over $2000.00 in damage; such as painting woodwork (windows & molding) they painted the whole house without writing permission and made a mess of it, dirty carpets, garbage, broken lawnmower, damaged dishwasher etc, etc.
I have some of the receipts for replacement of some of these items, and estimates for others.
RI small claims only allows to file up to $1500.00
What court should I use to recover my expenses, and do I need actual receipts for all the damaged items.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Property Demage
In Rhode Island, the District court has exclusive judisdiction over landlord/tenant issues. If the amount you believe you are entitled to in damnages exceeds $1,500, you may file a peition for damages in District Court.
You should be prepared to show the court that the expenses you reasonably incurred in returning the premises to the condition in which they existed prior to the coccupaiton by these tenant exceeds the amount of their security deposit
Best wishes to you.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
