Rhode Island law

Construction Defect Laws in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island construction defect claims are governed by the general 10-year statute of limitations for property damage and contract (R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 9-1-13, 9-1-17) and a 10-year statute of repose (R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-29). Rhode Island requires general contractors to register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board. Rhode Island's Home Improvement Practices Act provides consumer protections. Mechanics' liens provide security.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Statute of Limitations

10 years (general); 10-year statute of reposeR.I. Gen. Laws §§ 9-1-13, 9-1-29

10-year general statute for tort and contract actions — among the longer in the U.S. 10-year statute of repose bars actions against designers, builders, or contractors more than 10 years after substantial completion.

State law

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Contractors' Registration ActR.I. Gen. Laws § 5-65-1 et seq.

Requires contractors to register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board (CRLB). Unregistered contractors cannot enforce contracts and may face penalties.

Home Improvement Practices ActR.I. Gen. Laws § 5-64-1 et seq.

Regulates residential construction and home improvement contracts over $1,000. Requires written contracts, specific disclosures, and 3-day right to cancel.

Mechanics' LiensR.I. Gen. Laws § 34-28-1 et seq.

Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers may file mechanics' liens against improved real property. Strict notice and filing requirements.

Implied Warranty (New Home)Rhode Island common law

New-home builders impliedly warrant that the home is reasonably fit for habitation.

State law

Official Sources

RI Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board Rhode Island General Assembly

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.

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Construction Defect Laws in Rhode Island.

Statute of Limitations

Key Rhode Island Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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