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SB 943

AN ACT RELATING TO PROPERTY -- INSURANCE ON MULTI-UNIT DWELLINGS -- TENANT RELOCATION INSURANCE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill requires landlords to carry tenant relocation insurance covering displaced renants' moving and housing costs during involuntary vacancies.

05/15/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 943

Legislative bill overview

SB 943 would require landlords of multi-unit residential dwellings to maintain insurance coverage that compensates tenants for relocation costs if they are forced to vacate due to property damage, condemnation, or similar circumstances beyond their control. The bill establishes minimum coverage standards and procedures for how displaced tenants would access these benefits.

Why is this important

Tenant displacement from unexpected property loss can create severe financial hardship, particularly for low-income renters who lack savings for emergency moving, deposits, and temporary housing. This bill attempts to shift relocation costs from vulnerable tenants to property owners through mandatory insurance, addressing a gap in existing tenant protection laws and potentially reducing homelessness risk following disasters or building failures.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance cost burden: Landlords argue mandatory coverage increases operating costs, potentially leading to higher rents or reduced investment in rental properties, particularly affecting smaller property owners
  • Scope and coverage limits: Disputes likely over what triggers coverage (natural disaster vs. code violation), maximum benefit amounts, and whether insurance should cover temporary housing, deposits, moving costs, or all three
  • Market impacts: Concern that insurance requirements could reduce rental housing supply in tight markets or concentrate ownership among larger corporate landlords who can absorb costs more easily

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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