Originally Posted By: croust This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
As a new HI with a background in building code inspection, I am wondering what you all report about enclosed, under-stair storage areas which are not sheetrocked. The codes haven’t allowed them for awhile but I haven’t seen it addressed in the message boards or in the HI training materials. Do you view them as a high priority-must fix or do you mention them at all?
Chris Roust
Roust Property Inspection
Juneau, Alaska
Originally Posted By: John Bowman This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
croust wrote:
As a new HI with a background in building code inspection, I am wondering what you all report about enclosed, under-stair storage areas which are not sheetrocked. The codes haven't allowed them for awhile but I haven't seen it addressed in the message boards or in the HI training materials. Do you view them as a high priority-must fix or do you mention them at all?
Chris Roust
Roust Property Inspection
Juneau, Alaska
Chris,
Point me in the right direction. Which code doesn't allow it. More information please?
Originally Posted By: dbush This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
John, I believe he is referring to:
311.2.2 Under stair protection.
Enclosed accessible space under stairs shall have walls, under stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with 1/2-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
Originally Posted By: dfrend This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
It is for fire blocking. If there is storage space it needs to have some sort of sheetrocking to slow the spread of fire.
Additionally, watch for fire sprinklers in these spaces. Many jurisdictions now require them, but rules for requiring them in these spaces depends on jurisdiction.
Originally Posted By: dfrend This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Think of this:
What would those items in the picture impinge on if on fire? The stairs are a major source of egress, rescue, and fire attack. If the stairs are compromised it makes getting up or down to get out of the house safely hard, and it makes getting to the fire that much harder for firefighters.
Originally Posted By: dfrend This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Quote:
In new construction I hope, this is not something I would comment on an older house.
Just like GFCI's and the like.
Just because GFCI's are not code fore the time the house was built does not mean you can't mention them. If your client gets electrocuted because the had none, don't you think they'll ask why you did not even tell them they were a safety feature that could help them?
We are not code inspectors. Look at the SOP's:
Quote:
1.2. A Material defect is a problem with a residential real property or any portion of it that would have a significant adverse impact on the value of the property or that involves an unreasonable risk to people on the property.
Wouldn't you agree that somethings that were done years ago that are prohibited now are unsafe? Just because CODE does not prohibit them based on the age, does not mean you can't tell them it is unsafe.
Would you tell them they had asbestos in the attic? It might have been ok back then.
Originally Posted By: jpope This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
jbehling wrote:
In new construction I hope, this is not something I would comment on an older house.
Just like GFCI's and the like.
Even on older homes I recommend installation of GFCI's.
This stair issue is a major concern regardless of the age of the home and needs to be brought to the attention of a potential buyer as well as the current occupant.
Just like smoke detectors, the stairs aren't an issue until there is a fire.
-- Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738
Originally Posted By: dfrend This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Jason, glad you could join the force .
All kidding aside, I feel safety of clients is a primary concern. They have hired me to tell them about their home and any defects. If there is something I see as unsafe, I will tell them that.
Originally Posted By: kmcmahon This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’m still having a tough time coming to grips with this one. Even as a fireman, I have a tough time seeing the relevance, and I see it a bit as nit-picky. I guess if there are combustibles stored under the stairs, it ads fuel to the fire.
Jezus...why not make the whole home out of concrete. It would save more lives.
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