Rhode Island Seasonal Rental Maintenance Guide 2025

Living in Rhode Island means experiencing four distinct seasons, each bringing unique challenges for renters. From harsh winter storms to humid summers, proper seasonal maintenance protects your comfort, prevents costly repairs, and maintains a positive relationship with your landlord. This comprehensive 2025 guide covers your responsibilities as a tenant and helps you stay proactive year-round.

Tenant vs. Landlord Responsibilities

In Rhode Island, landlords must maintain heating systems, major appliances, and structural elements. Tenants are typically responsible for routine cleaning, minor upkeep, and notifying landlords of issues promptly. Always check your lease for specific terms.

Rhode Island Climate Overview 2025

Rhode Island's Four Season Climate:

Weather Patterns

• Humid continental climate
• Average annual temperature: 50°F
• 45-48 inches annual precipitation
• Coastal influence moderates extremes

2025 Climate Trends

• Warmer winters, increased ice storms
• More intense summer humidity
• Earlier spring, later fall seasons
• Increased extreme weather events

Spring Maintenance (March - May)

Spring in Rhode Island brings variable weather, from late snowstorms to sudden warm spells. This season is crucial for preparing your rental for summer comfort and addressing any winter damage.

Essential Spring Tasks

Your Responsibilities:

☐ Replace HVAC filters (monthly during heavy use)
☐ Clean bathroom exhaust fans
☐ Test smoke and CO detector batteries
☐ Clean dryer vents and lint traps
☐ Deep clean after winter hibernation
☐ Check and clean window tracks
☐ Test air conditioning before hot weather
☐ Clean humidifier/dehumidifier units
☐ Vacuum refrigerator coils
☐ Check weatherstripping around doors/windows

Report to Landlord:

☐ Heating system efficiency issues
☐ Winter damage to exterior (ice dams, etc.)
☐ Plumbing leaks or pressure issues
☐ Window seal failures or drafts
☐ Gutter damage or blockages
☐ Roof leaks or missing shingles
☐ Foundation cracks from freeze/thaw
☐ Exterior paint damage
☐ Driveway or walkway damage
☐ Appliance malfunctions

Rhode Island Spring Specifics:

• Mud Season (March-April): Extra door mats, frequent vacuum cleaning
• Pollen Season: Change HVAC filters more frequently, keep windows closed during peak times
• Variable Weather: Don't pack away winter clothes until May
• Basement Moisture: Monitor for spring dampness, run dehumidifiers

Summer Maintenance (June - August)

Rhode Island summers are warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching 80-85°F and humidity levels that can make it feel much hotter. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes, while inland areas can be especially humid.

Summer Focus Areas

Cooling System Maintenance

• Change AC filters monthly during heavy use
• Keep outdoor unit clear of debris
• Close blinds/curtains during peak sun
• Use ceiling fans to improve circulation
• Program thermostat efficiently (76-78°F when home)
• Clean air vents and registers

Humidity Control

• Run bathroom fans during and after showers
• Use dehumidifiers in basements
• Ensure proper ventilation while cooking
• Dry clothes outside when possible
• Monitor for mold growth in humid areas
• Keep indoor humidity 30-50%

Summer Utility Management

2025 Summer Utility Costs in Rhode Island:

Average Monthly Costs (Peak Season)

• Electric (with AC): $120-$250
• Natural Gas: $30-$60 (minimal heating)
• Water (increased usage): $40-$80

Money-Saving Tips

• Use AC wisely: 76°F+ when home
• Take advantage of time-of-use rates
• Cook outside or use microwave
• Air-dry laundry when possible

Summer Storm Preparedness

Rhode Island experiences summer thunderstorms and occasional tropical weather. Keep flashlights, batteries, and a battery pack charged. Know how to shut off utilities if needed.

Fall Maintenance (September - November)

Fall is preparation season in Rhode Island. With winter approaching, this is your most important maintenance period to ensure comfort and prevent expensive emergency repairs during cold weather.

Critical Fall Preparations

Heating System Preparation:

☐ Test heating system before cold weather
☐ Replace furnace filters
☐ Clean baseboard heaters and vents
☐ Check thermostat battery and programming
☐ Reverse ceiling fan direction (clockwise)
☐ Report any heating issues immediately

Winterization Tasks:

☐ Install storm windows (if provided)
☐ Add weatherstripping to doors/windows
☐ Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas
☐ Close foundation vents (if applicable)
☐ Store summer furniture
☐ Clean and store window AC units

Rhode Island Fall Specifics

Unique RI Fall Considerations:

• Leaf Management: Clear gutters if accessible, keep drains clear
• Coastal Areas: Prepare for fall nor'easters with high winds
• Heating Oil: If using oil heat, monitor tank levels and schedule deliveries
• Hurricane Season: Late season storms possible through November
• Frost Dates: First frost typically October 15-30

Winter Maintenance (December - February)

Rhode Island winters bring snow, ice, and temperatures often dropping into the teens. Coastal areas may see more ice storms, while inland areas typically receive more snow. Proper winter maintenance prevents frozen pipes, ice dams, and heating emergencies.

Winter Survival Essentials

Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Keep cabinet doors open under sinks
• Let faucets drip during extreme cold
• Maintain indoor temperature above 55°F
• Know location of main water shutoff
• Report any heating issues immediately
• Keep basement/crawl space heated

Energy Efficiency

• Use draft stoppers under doors
• Close off unused rooms (unless heating system requires open vents)
• Open blinds on sunny days
• Change furnace filters monthly
• Use humidifier to feel warmer at lower temps
• Wear layers and use blankets

Snow and Ice Management

Tenant Snow Removal Responsibilities:

Typically Your Responsibility

• Walkways to your unit
• Steps and small porches
• Balconies and decks
• Keeping emergency exits clear

Usually Landlord's Responsibility

• Main driveways and parking lots
• Roof snow removal
• Ice dam prevention
• Common area walkways

Always check your lease agreement for specific snow removal responsibilities.

Winter Heating Costs

2025 Winter Heating Costs in Rhode Island:

Average Monthly Costs (Peak Winter)

• Natural Gas: $120-$300
• Heating Oil: $200-$500
• Electric Heat: $200-$400
• Propane: $150-$350

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Programmable thermostat: 68°F day, 62°F night
• Seal air leaks with temporary caulk
• Use space heaters in occupied rooms only
• Apply for utility assistance programs

Year-Round Maintenance Tasks

Monthly Tasks

Safety Checks

• Test smoke detectors
• Test carbon monoxide detectors
• Check fire extinguisher pressure
• Test GFCI outlets
• Check emergency flashlight

HVAC Maintenance

• Replace/clean air filters
• Clean air vents and returns
• Check thermostat function
• Listen for unusual noises
• Ensure vents aren't blocked

Plumbing Checks

• Check for leaks under sinks
• Test water pressure
• Clean drain stoppers
• Run garbage disposal with ice
• Check toilet for running water

Quarterly Tasks

Every 3 Months:

☐ Deep clean bathroom exhaust fans
☐ Vacuum refrigerator coils
☐ Clean dryer vent thoroughly
☐ Check caulking around tubs/showers
☐ Clean out clothes dryer lint trap

☐ Test garage door openers/safety features
☐ Check weatherstripping condition
☐ Clean humidifier/dehumidifier
☐ Inspect window screens for damage
☐ Check exterior doors and locks

Emergency Preparedness

Rhode Island Weather Emergencies

Winter Storms & Ice

• Keep 3-day supply of water and food
• Battery-powered radio and flashlights
• Extra blankets and warm clothing
• Backup heating source (if safe)
• Snow shovel and ice melt
• Know utility shutoff locations

Summer Storms & Power Outages

• Portable fan and battery pack
• Coolers and ice for food storage
• First aid kit and medications
• Battery bank for phone charging
• Generator safety knowledge
• Emergency contact numbers

Important Rhode Island Contacts

Emergency Numbers to Know:

Utilities

• Rhode Island Energy: 1-800-322-3223
• Gas Emergency: 1-800-640-1595
• Electric Emergency: 1-800-465-1212

Municipal Services

• Dig Safe: 811
• Non-emergency police: Varies by town
• Water department: Contact local city/town

Communicating with Your Landlord

Best Practices for Maintenance Requests

How to Report Issues

• Always report in writing (email/text)
• Include photos when helpful
• Be specific about the problem
• Note when the issue started
• Specify if it's an emergency
• Follow up if no response in 24-48 hours

What Constitutes an Emergency

• No heat in winter (below 68°F)
• Gas leaks or electrical hazards
• Major water leaks or flooding
• No hot water for 24+ hours
• Broken locks on exterior doors
• Sewer backups

Rhode Island Landlord Response Requirements

Rhode Island landlords must respond to habitability issues within a reasonable time. For emergencies, response should be immediate. For non-emergencies, 24-48 hours is typical. Document all communications.

Quick Reference Checklist

Printable Seasonal Checklist:

Spring

☐ Test AC
☐ Change filters
☐ Deep clean
☐ Check batteries
☐ Report winter damage

Summer

☐ Monthly AC filter
☐ Monitor humidity
☐ Use fans efficiently
☐ Storm preparedness
☐ Efficient cooling

Fall

☐ Test heating
☐ Winterize
☐ Install storms
☐ Reverse fans
☐ Check weatherstripping

Winter

☐ Prevent frozen pipes
☐ Efficient heating
☐ Snow removal
☐ Emergency supplies
☐ Monitor systems

Maintenance Made Easy with H&T Homes

At H&T Homes, we believe in proactive maintenance and open communication. Our properties are well-maintained, and we respond quickly to tenant concerns. We provide detailed maintenance guidelines to all our tenants and work together to keep your home comfortable year-round. Our maintenance request system makes it easy to report issues and track progress.

View Our Properties Report Maintenance Issue