Whether you're looking for information about a potential employee or researching facts on property, you need to access Rhode Island Public Records. Public records are documents that have been filed or recorded by either public agencies or private individuals. Such records include birth and death records, marriage and divorce papers, criminal records, real estate documents, licenses, and so on.

Public records are held by federal, state and local government, who in turn determine their availability. Although most state records are accessible to the public, you may be expected to pay for some information; the fees will vary depending on the department and state. You can always visit state departments and offices for public records, though there's a breadth of information online.

When researching Rhode Island public records, remember the following:

1. When doing a background check on an individual, you may want to consider a nationwide search. This will cover information, not just in your state, but in the country as a whole.

2. Make sure that the Rhode Island criminal search you get is up to date.

3. Get information from a credible source when searching Rhode Island public records online. You may be liable for turning someone down if you base a hiring decision on incorrect facts.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Search State of Rhode Island public records for real estate information

Information on real estate is always available to the public. If you're looking for specific data on a particular property, such as zoning information, assessments or building requirements, you can find those on government sites, such as county offices. Additionally, you can research title and deed information, find out who owns a property and get tax information.

I recommend: Real Marketing is an online resource that provides links to Rhode Island county assessor's offices. You can also find comprehensive property information by visiting the Public Records Administration.

Consider checking Rhode Island criminal records before you hire an employee

As a business owner, it's smart to run background checks on potential employees, especially if you're hiring childcare providers and teachers. Background checks can range from verifying a person's Social Security number, to a detailed account of the person's history and acquaintances. Before doing a background check, you must get permission from the individual.

I recommend: The Rhode Island State Police can help you obtain criminal records. Additionally, Rhode Island court records are available at the Rhode Island Judiciary.

Track down anyone with a Rhode Island vital records search

With the assistance of the Internet and the right data, you can track down any individual, living or deceased. If you already know the person's Social Security number, date of birth, or last known address, you can use these to research vital records. Less information than that makes your search a little more difficult, but still possible.

I recommend: You can find records of marriage, divorce, birth and death at the Rhode Island Department of Administration. Public People Finder can help you track someone down using a variety of information, but they do require a fee.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act regulates how consumer credit information, such as Rhode Island arrest records, is collected and used by outside companies-- not employers. The act also restricts reporting on outstanding debts and other negative information after seven years, with the exception of criminal convictions.