Attic Access and Safety! Safety! Safety!
Many attic spaces are only accessible from a ceiling hatch or attic access ladder (pulldown) system. Very few are walk-in-style ( attic access door) attic spaces. This poses a potential safety issue for a Home Inspector. You must be very conscientious of attic access and safety while on the job.
Things to consider when accessing the attic for inspection:
- Location of access
- Size of access
- Rating of the ladder system
- Obstructions
1. Location of access:
Prior to setting up a ladder or opening a pulldown ladder system, ensure that no floor obstruction prevents the base of the ladder system from resting properly on the floor. A stable ladder system is critical for a safe attic inspection.
2. Size of access:
Ensure the attic opening is adequate to enter and exit the space is extremely important. Just because you can enter the space, doesn’t mean you should.
2009 IBC (Commercial Construction):
1209.2 Attic Spaces. An opening not less than 20 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided to any attic area having a clear height of over 30 inches (762 mm). A 30-inch (762 mm) minimum clear headroom in the attic space shall be provided at or above the access opening.
2006 IRC (Residential Construction):
R807.1 Attic Access. Buildings with combustible ceiling or roof construction shall have an attic access opening to attic areas that exceed 30 square feet (2.8m squared) and have a vertical height of 30 inches (762 mm) or more. The rough-framed opening shall not be less than 22 inches by 30 inches, and shall be located in a hallway or readily accessible location. A 30-inch (762 mm) minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall be provided at some point above the access opening.
3. Rating of the ladder system
Many Home Inspectors now carry their own ladder for indoor use. Both telescoping and adjustable multi-position ladder systems are commonly small enough to be carried into a home. Remember to check your equipment before climbing.
If you are using the attic access ladder (pulldown ladder) system installed in the home you should thoroughly inspect it prior to climbing up. Rating labels are typically stamped or have a data plate secured. Homeowners, not professional carpenters, usually install attic pull-down ladders. Evidence of this distinction can be seen in consistently shoddy and dangerous work that rarely meets safety standards. Some of the more common defective conditions observed by inspectors include:
- Fastened with improper nails or screws.
- Fastened with an insufficient number of nails or screws.
- Attic pull-down ladders are cut too short.
- Attic pull-down ladders are cut too long.
4. Obstructions
Personal obstruction poses another significant challenge to the Home Inspector. Often we find ourselves in a predicament because the only access is blocked with stored items. The homeowner should be requested to remove all personal items.
Homebuyers see the attic space as valuable “useable space”. For that reason, a proper inspection and means of access are extremely important to the buyer. We always recommend that a pulldown-style ladder system be installed to facilitate access and safety around the home. Check out the pros and cons of each product, and know the aspects you need to consider before buying your new attic ladder.
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Last Updated on 4 years ago
