Attic access requirements

**Dan Harris** · 03-15-2010, 02:27 PM

I recommended an access be provided on an offset section of home that did not have an access to a bath and couple bed rooms.
The attic area did not have any HVAC units. The attic area was more than 30" high, and 30 sq.ft.

The builder informed the customer an access was not required since this was a fire access requirement. For access in this area the fire department can remove HVAC ducting going to that part of the attic to get access.

Is this an acceptable access?
In spirit of respecting the builders that visit this site, especially the ones that claim we are terriorsts, among others things, when we recommend correction on items that don't meet the min. building requirements, lets not get too technical on this one

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**Rick Cantrell** · 03-15-2010, 03:32 PM

SECTION R807
ATTIC ACCESS
R807.1 Attic access.

Buildings with combustible ceiling or
roof construction shall have an attic access opening to attic
areas that exceed 30 square feet (2.8 m2) and have a vertical
height of 30 inches (762 mm) or more.
The rough-framed opening shall not be less than 22 inches
by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm) and shall be located in a
hallway or other readily accessible location. A 30-inch (762
mm) minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall
be provided at some point above the access opening. See Section
M1305.1.3 for access requirements where mechanical

equipment is located in attics.

SECTION R202
DEFINITIONS
ACCESSIBLE.

Signifies access that requires the removal of

an access panel or similar removable obstruction.

**Jim Luttrall** · 03-15-2010, 04:02 PM

Firemen don't need access panels, that is why the carry axes and hook poles. I doubt you will ever see a fireman remove a duct to gain access unless they use the ax instead of a screw driver

The builder is wrong.

**Jerry Peck** · 03-15-2010, 05:45 PM

Originally Posted by Dan Harris

For access in this area the fire department can remove HVAC ducting going to that part of the attic to get access.

Originally Posted by Jim Luttrall

Firemen don't need access panels, that is why the carry axes and hook poles. I doubt you will ever see a fireman remove a duct to gain access unless they use the ax instead of a screw driver

The duct would just get hung up on the ax, they would just knock a hole in the ceiling where there is no duct - quicker and easier.

Yep, the builder is wrong.