Ash dump under home

[Marc M]

Doesn't seem right to have an ash dump under the home in a crawlspace. Just looks like a fire hazard if the door is left open or whatever... Im sure there's nothing for this NFPA or ICC wise..is there?

[Bart Ogden]

Doesn't seem right to have an ash dump under the home in a crawlspace. Just looks like a fire hazard if the door is left open or whatever... Im sure there's nothing for this NFPA or ICC wise..is there?

From NFPA 211, 2019 Edition (and it's been there for many years):

7.1.4.5 Cleanout openings and doors shall not be obstructed. Combustible material located or projected beyond the face of the chimney shall be kept a minimum of 18 in. (457 mm) away from the cleanout opening.

7.1.4.6 Cleanout doors shall be permanently marked with a message equivalent to the following:
WARNING: DO NOT OBSTRUCT. KEEP COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL AT LEAST 18 in. (457 mm) AWAY FROM THIS DOOR.

11.2.8 Ash Dumps. Cleanouts, if provided, shall be accessible and located so that ash removal will not create a hazard to combustible materials.

Warmest Regards,
Bart Ogden, President
Home Safe Hearth & Chimney, Inc.
Wichita, KS
CSIA Master Chimney Sweep
NFI Master Hearth Professional

[Marc M]

You are the man. much thanks

[David Wigger]

Doesn't seem right to have an ash dump under the home in a crawlspace. Just looks like a fire hazard if the door is left open or whatever... Im sure there's nothing for this NFPA or ICC wise..is there?
It appears to me that the ash dump is located in an addition. By the concrete steps in the background it looks like this was originally the exterior of the house and has been closed in. I guess the door and firebox floor trap need to be sealed.

[Jerry Peck]

And don't forget the plywood above is not installed with its face grain perpendicular to the supports.

[Marc M]

And don't forget the plywood above is not installed with its face grain perpendicular to the supports.
Well played sir...Good eye JP.