Does the code permit nm in commercial buildings

[guschash]

Does the code permit nm in commercial buildings, like a small shopping center. I read 334.10 and what it said about types of construction. 334.12 talks about type 1 and type 2 construction being installed in a raceway, is this commercial buildings material?

 

[guschash]

Sorry not sure how my question got in this thread. Anyway to move it?

 

[iwire]

Already done. :smile:

 

[Dennis Alwon]

Does the code permit nm in commercial buildings, like a small shopping center. I read 334.10 and what it said about types of construction. 334.12 talks about type 1 and type 2 construction being installed in a raceway, is this commercial buildings material?

Check with the ahj and see what they say. Yes it may be allowed but there are restrictions. It cannot be installed above suspended ceilings in non dwelling.

 

[guschash]

So its more of a local call rather than a code restriction? Thanks

 

[Dennis Alwon]

So its more of a local call rather than a code restriction? Thanks

You read the code article now you need to see how the inspection dept classifies the building. That can be very different from one area to the next area.

 

[iwire]

Look at the cover sheet of the plan set and it should have the construction type listed.

Also see Annex E at the rear of the NEC to get an idea of what each type of construction is.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

You really need to look at the building code to see what type of construction is required for the building. If the building was permitted to be of Type III, but was actually built as Type I, you can still use NM.

 

[Inspectorcliff]

AHJ rules could vary (shouldn't)

AHJ rules could vary (shouldn't)

Does the code permit nm in commercial buildings, like a small shopping center. I read 334.10 and what it said about types of construction. 334.12 talks about type 1 and type 2 construction being installed in a raceway, is this commercial buildings material?

Definitely check with the building official as well as the electrical inspector, make sure they are not butting heads, if its steel studs, the bushing will have to be put in. And of course that thing about none above a suspended ceiling.

 

[mdshunk]

If there's lots of dropped ceilings involved, and steel studs, you need to think about a couple things. Even if you're permitted to use NM where concealed, you have to ask yourself if the cost savings of using NM inside the walls will offset the labor switching back and fourth to MC or pipe for the above-ceiling work.

 

[guschash]

Thanks , I think I will stick with MC.