Slander of title is a false and malicious statement made in disparagement of a person’s title to property that causes the property owner special damages (losses). It is a tort action with stringent pleading and proof requirements.

In a slander of title action the plaintiff must prove that the defendant made a false and malicious statement, disparaging property in which the plaintiff holds an interest, and causing special damages.

In states that recognize a slander of title claim or cause of action, some courts have held that a plaintiff who sues for slander of title must plead and prove the loss of a specific sale—and that a plaintiff who does not meet these pleading requirements may not recover damages.

In Rhode Island, slander of title is recognized as a cause of action under tort law. To establish a case for slander of title, a plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant made a false and malicious statement that disparaged the plaintiff's title to property, resulting in special damages, such as the loss of a specific sale. The plaintiff must provide clear evidence of the disparaging statement, its falsity, the malice with which it was made, and the direct financial losses that ensued. The requirements for pleading and proof are stringent, and failure to meet these requirements can result in the inability to recover damages. It is important for plaintiffs to provide detailed allegations and evidence to support their claims in order to successfully pursue a slander of title action in Rhode Island.