Providence enforces Rhode Island State Building and Fire Code rules on door-locking hardware, requiring single-action egress in most occupancies so people can exit without keys, tools, or special knowledge.
Under the Rhode Island State Building Code (Title 23, Chapter 27.3) and State Fire Code (Title 23, Chapter 28.1), egress doors in residential, assembly, and most commercial occupancies must allow free exit using a single motion without keys or special knowledge. Providence Department of Inspection and Standards and Providence Fire Department check for code-compliant hardware during plan review and inspections. Landlord-installed double-cylinder deadbolts, padlocks, or chains on tenant exit doors are generally prohibited and can be ordered removed at the landlord's expense.
Improper egress hardware can trigger immediate correction orders, fines, and certificate-of-occupancy issues, and may expose owners to liability if a fire injury occurs.
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