Enforcing Leases in Rhode Island Post-Covid

The programs established by the federal and state government in response to the economic and public health effects of the Covid-19 pandemic had significant effects on Rhode Island property owners and landlords. Policies like the residential eviction moratorium placed restrictions on the rights of property owners. Other policies, such as Rhode Island’s rental assistance program, helped both tenants and property owners to stay afloat economically during the pandemic.

As the pandemic appears to have stabilized to an endemic stage and some policymakers tire of active government responses to pandemic-related economic troubles, many of these programs have expired and will not be renewed. Rhode Island’s rental assistance program was closed out earlier in the summer. With the program’s termination, some renters and landlords were left in troublesome situations. A local news report was recently published explaining the effects of the program’s expiration on Rhode Island residents.

According to the facts discussed in the recently published article, the Rhode Island rental assistance program helped over 30,000 families to pay past-due rent and future obligations. On average, each family received about $6500 toward their rent. Although this program was designed to help renters, it was also very beneficial to landlords. Because there was an eviction moratorium in effect while the program was active, the only rent received by many landlords was thanks to the program.

As the Rhode Island rental assistance program has been terminated and the eviction moratorium expired, Rhode Island property owners are again entitled to sell evictions for nonpayment of rent. In some situations, eviction may not be the most desirable outcome, and negotiation between landlords and tenants is possible. Property owners and their lessees are always able to renegotiate lease terms if they can reach an agreement. Renegotiating residential and commercial leases can allow the parties to modify their obligations and prevent default or eviction.

Landlords and property owners with noncompliant tenants have many options to consider when enforcing a lease agreement, Any modifications to an existing lease agreement must be executed and recorded properly for them to be enforceable. If you are a property owner with a tenant attempting to renegotiate a residential or commercial lease, it can be helpful to have a qualified real estate attorney by your side to protect your rights.

Enforcing or Modifying a Rhode Island Lease Agreement

If you are a Rhode Island landlord or tenant who is currently a party to a lease agreement that is not sustainable, you may have several options to consider. In addition to eviction or breaking a lease, renegotiation should be on the table. If you are considering renegotiating a lease agreement, the qualified real estate attorneys with Bilodeau Capalbo can help you cover your bases before signing any modification. Our firm represents Rhode Island clients in many types of real estate cases, including landlord-tenant issues. Contact our offices today and schedule a free consultation by calling 401-300-4055.