Ok so since I was able to cut a bigger hole in the top plate andfish in a flex I was ok with exception 2, now I see what you are saying . I had read that exception to mean hollowed at the top as in no top plate such as wall studs that continue up above a drop cieling so that there is an existing open access to fish in extra wiring if need be. So as you statedif its changable without disturbing finish youre good to go without making that change via second exception. Interesting, rough is on tuesday I'll see inspectors take on this as well cause I hate doing unecessary work. Thanks for ur input, it's appreciated