R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-6-9: Shut off of water supply for nonpayment of sewer user fees, charges, and assessments.

(a) The Woonsocket city council is authorized to enact an ordinance to terminate the water supply service of any person assessed by the city of Woonsocket for water service for nonpayment of sewer user fees, charges, and assessments. The ordinance provides for the notification of the user of termination in the manner prescribed in the rules and regulations governing the termination of water services as issued by the division of public utilities and carriers.

(b) The ordinance may provide for the assessment of any fees, charges and assessments affiliated with the shut off and restoration of service.

(c) When service is provided to a residence occupied by a tenant, the tenant may, after paying the fees, charges and assessments in order to restore or prevent termination of service, deduct the amount paid from the rent due the landlord. The tenant shall provide the landlord with a copy of the receipt from the city when making a deduction from the rent.