Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-27.3-108.1.7 § 23-27.3-108.1.7. Department records

(a) The building official shall keep in a public place and open to public inspection during normal working hours official records of applications received, permits, and certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, variances granted, and notices and orders issued.  File copies of all papers, applications, inspection records, notice of violations, and local and state approval reports in connection with the issuance of permits shall be retained in the official records so long as the building or structure to which they relate remains in existence.

(b) Plans and specifications for all R-4, one and two family dwellings shall be retained for one year after the completion of construction.

(c) Plans and specifications for all other use groups shall be retained for five (5) years after the completion of construction.