Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-27.3-107.5. Local building official--Qualifications--Powers and duties

The building official, to be eligible for appointment, shall have at least five (5) years’ experience in both residential and commercial construction, shall have been employed as a Building Inspector-2 for a minimum of one year, and shall possess an International Code Council (ICC) certification as a certified building official (CBO) or any combination of education and experience that the building code standards committee deems to be substantially equivalent.  The building official shall possess a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of residential and commercial building construction and the ability to review plans and supervise staff in the enforcement of the state building code.  However, the qualifications outlined in this section shall not be required in the case of a building official holding a current state certification prior to July 1, 2010.  The building official shall pass upon any question relative to the mode, manner of construction, or materials to be used in the erection or alteration of buildings or structures.  The building official shall require compliance with the provisions of the state building code of all rules lawfully adopted and promulgated thereunder, and of laws relating to construction, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, and integral equipment, and location, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings and structures, except as may be otherwise provided for.  The building official or his or her assistant shall have the right of entry to buildings or structures, for the proper performance of his or her duties during normal business hours, except that in the case of an emergency the building official shall have the right of entry at any time, if the entry is necessary in the interest of public safety.