Can a Rhode Island landlord be liable for a tenant's dog?

Yes, if it knew the dog was aggressive and failed to act.

Is a landlord strictly liable?

Not merely as a landlord; the statute names the owner or keeper.

The landlord's knowledge of the dog's aggression.

Is the Landlord Liable for a Tenant's Dog Bite in Rhode Island?

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

The strict liability statute names the owner or keeper. A landlord is judged by what it knew.

The test

If a landlord allowed a tenant to keep a vicious dog on the property, the landlord may be accountable. A local firm adds that a landlord who knew a tenant kept an aggressive animal but failed to act can share responsibility.

Who else

A kennel company or another party caring for the dog when it attacked may be liable, and the statute covers keepers.

The owner remains primary

In most Rhode Island cases the owner or keeper is the primary party held liable, and the strict liability rule applies outside the enclosure.

Proof

A plaintiff has to show the landlord's actual knowledge and its ability to act. We did not find a Rhode Island decision squarely stating the test, so confirm with an attorney.

Injured in Rhode Island?

A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.

Talk to a Rhode Island attorney

Official sources

This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how Rhode Island's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Rhode Island attorney.