Hot tub Power Cord

[nizak]

Is it code compliant to allow a SJT type cord to be laid on an exterior surface in an area subject to foot traffic. I fully realize that this would be a nuisance and even a trip hazard but putting that aside is it a violation? The reason I am asking is I had a home inspector write up a violation on an existing outdoor hot tub that has this type of cord(120V by the way with integral GFCI protection built into the cord end) directly buried about 6" deep under some pavers. The violation stated is that the cord is not rated for direct burial, which is legitimate reason.If the seller can simply dig up the cord and run it on the surface they will save nearly $1200.00, otherwise once the existing wiring is disturbed it will need to be brought up to current code and done as a new installation. Any thoughts welcome.

 

[GoldDigger]

Is it code compliant to allow a SJT type cord to be laid on an exterior surface in an area subject to foot traffic. I fully realize that this would be a nuisance and even a trip hazard but putting that aside is it a violation? The reason I am asking is I had a home inspector write up a violation on an existing outdoor hot tub that has this type of cord(120V by the way with integral GFCI protection built into the cord end) directly buried about 6" deep under some pavers. The violation stated is that the cord is not rated for direct burial, which is legitimate reason.If the seller can simply dig up the cord and run it on the surface they will save nearly $1200.00, otherwise once the existing wiring is disturbed it will need to be brought up to current code and done as a new installation. Any thoughts welcome.

Putting it inside a sleeve (split type so you do not have to disconnect it) and then building a decorative wood step structure over it to keep it off the ground might do the trick, but it would not be rated for that kind of use as permanent wiring either.
$1200 seems like a reasonable cost given the alternatives.

 

[nizak]

Looks like the 15' flexible cord length may be the downfall after all. I do not know how long the factory cord is since it's buried. Just measuring across the pavers gives me more distance than that already so I guess I answered my own ?. Thanks though!