Dan,
The attic access pathway must meet this:
From the IRC. (bold is mine)
- M1305.1.3 Appliances in attics.
Attics containing appliances requiring access shall have with an opening and a clear and unobstructed passageway large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) long when measured along the centerline of the passageway from the opening to the appliance. The passageway shall have continuous solid flooring in accordance with Chapter 5 not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide. A level service space at least 30 inches (762 mm) deep and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present along all sides of the appliance where access is required. The clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20 inches by 30 inches (508 mm) by 762 mm), where such dimensions are large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
- - Exceptions:
- - - 1. The passageway and level service space are not required where the appliance can be serviced and removed through the required opening.
- - - 2. Where the passageway is unobstructed and not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide for its entire length, the passageway shall be not more than 50 feet (15 250 mm) long.
- - M1305.1.3.1 Electrical requirements.
A luminaire controlled by a switch located at the required passageway opening and a receptacle outlet shall be installed at or near the appliance location in accordance with Chapter 38.
Other parts of that, I am sure, will also apply to your attic access being incorrect, but that "continuous solid flooring" is frequently missed by inspectors who see that everything else meets the requirements.
"Continuous"
That's a mighty big word.
