j-boxes in soffit?!

[abteknik]

My electrician has installed several junction boxes on the inside wall of a soffit. I think the NEC prohibits concealing a box behind a finish wall. Am I right? What article prohibits this? And are there exceptions?

Thanks.

 

[charlie]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

For the most part yes,314.29, yes if it is accessible.

 

[abteknik]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

So an access panel would or could make this installation Code-compliant?

 

[aelectricalman]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

Directly below the J boxes, put in a vent register that is large enough to access the boxes.

 

[cpal]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

What are the J Boxes supplying??

Renovated wiring or recessed fixtures???

Charlie

 

[abteknik]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

Renovated wiring.

 

[cpal]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

In that case I'd suggest you go with Mr Eldridges' post. Here is the language,
314.29 Boxes and Conduit Bodies to Be Accessible.
Boxes and conduit bodies shall be installed so that the wiring contained in them can be rendered accessible without removing any part of the building or, in underground circuits, without excavating sidewalks, paving, earth, or other substance that is to be used to establish the finished grade.

Charlie P

 

[abteknik]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

Vent register is a great idea; unfortunately the boxes are on the top side of the duct, so a register on the bottom of the soffit would leave you looking at tin. There is space for an access panel on the side -- not a lot, but maybe enough.

 

[abteknik]

Re: j-boxes in soffit?!

Charlie P.

Yeah, that's what I figured. I think a flip-up access panel here would make things "accessible."

Thanks all.

Craig