Replacing can light with pendant

[jeff43222]

I have a customer who wants a recessed can light replaced with a pendant light. The existing hole is about 6" in diameter, and the can housing was installed during a remodel (it's a new-work light).

My original plan was to leave the can housing and tap the existing junction box that's part of the housing and install an octagon box to a spreader bar. I would then cover the hole with one of those faceplates that are designed to cover a big hole and let the new octagon box protrude through the middle. The j-box would technically not be buried since it could be accessed by unscrewing the fixture and the new faceplate, so I'd be OK as far as 314.29 goes.

But then I got to thinking about 314.21. If I have to repair the drywall ceiling, the housing's j-box would be rendered inaccessible and thus be in violation of 314.29.

I'm trying to come up with a solution that's least destructive. I'm starting to think my only option is to tap one of the adjacent can lights, fish the cable to the new octagon box, and give the homeowner the phone number of my drywall guy.

 

[growler]

Is this some place where one of those fake medallions might work. I sometimes use those for ceiling fans where the hole is bigger than the sconce cover. I actually like the dry wall guy idea better. Homeowners often feel that we can solve all problems with a little magic ( pull rabbits from hats ) but this is just not true. Many times you just need to call the right people for the job.

 

[Gmack]

Maybe this will help:

314.21 Repairing Plaster and Drywall or Plasterboard
Plaster, drywall, or plasterboard surfaces that are broken or incomplete around boxes employing a flush-type cover or faceplate shall be repaired so there will be no gaps or open spaces greater than 3 mm ( 1/ 8 in.) at the edge of the box.

Commentary:

For the 2005 Code, a clarifying phrase was added to point out that repair is necessary only for boxes employing a flush-type cover or faceplate.

I think your medallion idea would be ok.

 

[izak]

hey ive got a job where i am about to do EXACTLY that
medalion over the existing can lights, screw a pancake to the medallion, and drop the pendant..

couldnt think of a better way and i thought it was a good idea

 

[Jim W in Tampa]

I dont see it as a problem.Might be one violation in that the now junction box is being mis used.Why not simply use octgon box and move the wires to it as a junction box ?