Bill > H5182

This bill amends existing Rhode Island law regarding the maintenance and repair of private easements and rights-of-way by modifying how costs are shared among property owners. Specifically, the bill stipulates that when no written agreement exists, the cost of maintaining, repairing, or restoring an easement or right-of-way shall be divided among benefited property owners based on the current municipal property assessment. The bill introduces new requirements that any written demand for cost-sharing must include detailed documentation such as engineering proposals, contractor evaluations, and a comprehensive explanation of how each owner's proportional cost was calculated. Additionally, the bill clarifies that property owners who directly damage an easement, including damages caused by their guests or invitees, are solely responsible for repairing that damage. If an owner refuses to pay their share or make necessary repairs, other property owners can bring a legal action in superior court for specific performance or contribution. The changes aim to provide more transparency and clarity in how shared infrastructure maintenance costs are determined and allocated among property owners.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

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