ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Final Electrical Inspection Includes Completion

From the Suncoast Division of the IAEI


Question:

Is an electrical inspector correct for asking that a lighting fixture (or lampholder) be installed at lighting outlets where they exist instead of a blank cover, such as in a kitchen or bathroom, or in any other location before allowing occupancy?

In a kitchen or bathroom I think a light must be installed in order to satisfy 210.70, although I can see where a person could argue it.

If the light is in a location where a lighting outlet is not required, then I would have to allow a blank cover.

It is clear all that is required by the NEC is an outlet.



Perhaps there are building codes that actually require illumination.

You can only enforce what the code states, especially true when the words are in article 100

[This message has been edited by iwire (edited 10-31-2004).]

Although it's as tacky as it can be, I agree that by definition, the outlet is required, but the utilization equiptment (the light in this case)isn't. Having argued the technicality of the NEC, I'd always install a light, even if only an open-bulb plastic light (75 cents?). I wouldn't want to loose a customer over a few dollars.

Dave

I believe that the intent of the code is to provide lighting without requiring an additional permit to install the fixtures.

While only an outlet, the recepticle, is required at a recepticle, a fixture is required at a juction box.

Forgetting about what each of us would do, or what the NFPAs intent is, what does 210.70 state?

Article 100

Notice it states "intended", it does not state "equipped with"

The 2002 NEC use the word Luminaire over 250 times, why not here in 210.70?

The exception that allows "receptacles controlled by a wall switch" specifically states receptacles, not receptacle outlets.

Still we are not required to leave a floor lamp.

Tacky or not that is how I see it.

I am interested in how this can be interpreted any other way?

Bob

Outlet: A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment.

It can be argued that the phrase "IS TAKEN" requires a fixture as well as bulbs to transform the junction box into an outlet.

But I can see where people might want to select their own lighting fixtures and I would not object to that either.

George, are you saying you would fail a final if there was a burned out bulb?

It's pretty common in the Denver area as well. Here is the scenario: Family room,(Or other room)has switched receptacle to meet the intent of the code. Then a switch and lighting opening are roughed in for a ceiling fan and it is an option to either hang a builder furnished fan at the time the home is built or have a blank installed for installation at a later point. In this situation I would rather see a blank plate than a keyless.

Well I can see both sides of this one.We regularly have a blank where additional fans lights maybe installed at home owners leisure.But in most cases there`s some source of lighting to meet code.Because they won`t pass off on blank cover say in kitchen.Sometimes we get by with the over sink light.I mean everyone knows a nice light will be installed but I guess is it installed properly and by whom could be the question