ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Romex in commercial (wood frame) buildings.

Does any one have problems with running NM cable in small commercial wood frame buildings (say a apartment complex office/community center (less than 100 people)) as opposed to MC cable?
Is the cost savings (material and labor) significant?

How many stories?

I might be wrong,but I thought Romex was not allowed in any commercial building.

Is a condominium or apartment complex above three stories considered commercial or residential?

Edward

One story, type V (wood frame) construction.

Based on your information, it's not an NEC issue.
Personally, I (as an EC) do not put MNC in comm buildings. But, remember, this is my personal choice.

John

cgw
In the county I live in its acceptable to run romex in a comm bldg but I refuse to do it. Are apt complex's concidered comm work in your area?

Rob

we just wired up a one story medical building. we ran romex for the offices, kitchen, reception, and waiting rooms; and BX for the examination rooms...if there wern't any examination rooms, i am positive my boss would have ran all romex(speed/cost of running the wire, ect.)if it's not over 3 stories then go for it...just don't run it in open runs above a drop ceiling.
for a complete list of where you are allowed to use NM cable, look at
Article 334.10--Uses Permitted.
for complete list of where you can't use it look at Article 334.12--Uses Not Permitted

Depends on your local codes for fire ratings, I'd check your Inspector before you start.

I don't have a problem using NM in any wood frame construction.

BTW, the 3 story limit was removed in the 2002 book.

what is (excessive) moisture or dampness?
in 334.12 (10) (d)

is a pole barn a hazardous location?
because of hay or grain dust maybe.
could I use NM in the pole barn?