attic storage

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madpenguin

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What determines whether or not an attic is "suitable for storage"? I realize it's usually common sense to install lighting in an attic regardless but at what point does it become necessary? (excluding serviceable equipment).

Thanks.
 
Yea, this is what I thought too. Anything at 2x6 or over sounds reasonable but.....

Where does it say in the NEC is what I'm after. If an inspector fails me for not having a light in the attic, what's my rebuttal?

I've looked fairly well in the NEC but I'm just not finding anything.

Thanks again!
 
I know that the Southern Building Code has a framing table showing structural components if a storage "live load" is desired....ie: above garages and the like
 
madpenguin said:
Yea, this is what I thought too. Anything at 2x6 or over sounds reasonable but.....

Where does it say in the NEC is what I'm after. If an inspector fails me for not having a light in the attic, what's my rebuttal?

I've looked fairly well in the NEC but I'm just not finding anything.

Thanks again!
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You won't find anything in the NEC to determine when an attic design would be considered a storage space. This really is an AHJ call.

IMHO, if the trusses are designed for storage loads or if the attic is provided with a pull down ladder or other permanent means of access, then the attic would be designed as a storage space.

Chris
 
Maybe 210.70 C 2008 Storage or Equipment Spaces for attics. I would assume if an area was floored at the attic access location this would be for storage if not why floor the area.
 
I've had this same discussion with some EC's and other inspectors. Some EC's in my area automatically install pull chain fixtures at the scuttle hole and others do not. I did ask on EC who does not do it why and he stated - that seeing how there's no "flooring" or pull-down stairs, the attic is not designed for storage.
I do not challenge them on this as it makes logical sense. If I see some type of flooring or a set up pull down stairs then there better be a light up there.
I know an inspector that will not pass a rough in inspection without seeing the pull chain fixture trimmed out.
 
luckyshadow said:
I've had this same discussion with some EC's and other inspectors. Some EC's in my area automatically install pull chain fixtures at the scuttle hole and others do not. I did ask on EC who does not do it why and he stated - that seeing how there's no "flooring" or pull-down stairs, the attic is not designed for storage.
I do not challenge them on this as it makes logical sense. If I see some type of flooring or a set up pull down stairs then there better be a light up there.
I know an inspector that will not pass a rough in inspection without seeing the pull chain fixture trimmed out.
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I think that stairs or flooring has nothing to do with "suitable for storage".

Was it structurally designed for the weight that could be stored there?
 
JohnJ0906 said:
I think that stairs or flooring has nothing to do with "suitable for storage".

Was it structurally designed for the weight that could be stored there?
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This makes the most sence to me . Some modular homes are built with engineered 2x4sfor a roof 2 ft on center 14 ft spans with a couple of 2x4s stapled and glued as a cheap truss. It can barely support itself as some company engineer signed off on it it is legal somehow. A stick framed attic has room to move around . A trussed attic is like a jungle gym.
 
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