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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Mesa AZ
    Posts
    1,181

    Default Attic access requirements

    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

    Similar Threads:
    Last edited by Dan Harris; 03-15-2010 at 02:46 PM.
    Member Benefits1
    Phoenix AZ Resale Home, Mobile Home, New Home Warranty Inspections. ASHI Certified Inspector #206929 Arizona Certified Inspector # 38440
    www.inspectaz.com

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Columbus GA
    Posts
    3,747

    Default Re: Attic access requirements



    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 m
    2) 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.


    ' correct a wise man and you gain a friend... correct a fool and he'll bloody your nose'.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Plano, Texas
    Posts
    4,245

    Default Re: Attic access requirements

    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.

    Jim Luttrall
    www.MrInspector.net
    Plano, Texas

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Fletcher, NC
    Posts
    28,032

    Default Re: Attic access requirements

    Quote Originally Posted by Dan Harris View Post
    For access in this area the fire department can remove HVAC ducting going to that part of the attic to get access.
    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Luttrall View Post
    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.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Location
    Mount Pleasant, SC
    Posts
    100

    Default Re: Attic access requirements

    Above posting reported for removal

    We know why you fly: because the bus is too expensive and the railroad has a dress code...
    www.atozinspector.com

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