How long must a building official retain inspection reports?

Retention of inspection reports is generally guided by public records laws, which dictate how long different types of records must be kept accessible for public review. These laws ensure transparency and accountability in government operations, including those related to building safety and compliance.

When it comes to inspection reports, they play a critical role in tracking the history of any modifications or compliance issues that occurred during the life of a building. Retaining these documents for the duration specified by public records retention policies ensures that there is a legally compliant and comprehensive archive of inspections that can be referred to when necessary.

While the other choices may seem plausible, they don't align with the established guidelines that govern public record retention. Long-term archival as implied in some alternatives may not be feasible or mandated by law, nor does it consider the structured approach that public records laws provide for such documentation.