Replies

1. 
   Piffin | Nov 04, 2002 04:53am | #1

   This was discussed a while back and the concensus, as I remember it was that there is no code for storage areas in lofts accessed by ladders. Living spaces are always accessed by a stair built ot code. No in between without re-naming the rooms in question.

   .

   Excellence is its own reward!

   "The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are." --Marcus Aurelius

1. 
   CloudHidden | Nov 04, 2002 04:59am | #2

   Agreed. Unless you can legitimately pass the area off as an "attic," the code for regular floor-to-floor stairs will apply. At least that's the case in all jurisdictions where I've talked with building officials about such a setup.

1. 
   kiddoc | Nov 04, 2002 05:09am | #3

   Thanks for the responses.  They coincide with my understanding of the codes.  My question is:  A loft with a ladder is very commonly pictured in various magazines when they are showcasing houses.  How are they getting away with it?

1. 
   Piffin | Nov 04, 2002 05:25am | #4

   Plenty of areas in this country still have no enforceable codes in place.

   It pays to check on insurance too though. For instance, while we have no codes, our local people try to avoid anything stupid. The local understanding on porch railings is that if the deck is three feet above the ground or more, it needs a railing for sure. Some of the local insurance underwriters require it tho down to 18" above ground. Thgey don't refuse to write a policy but they say to the customer that they hacve to write a rider for no deck railing. That can nearly double the cost of some homeowners insurance.

   Apply the same idea to your loft idea. See if you can get an insurance agent to answer some questions beofre designing and building something that may be unsafe.

   I worked on a pool deck in '87 on a hillside. Part of it was flush withthe ground and part was four feet up in the air. Owner refused to allow a railing because he wanted a clear view of the ocean.

   Week after it was finished he had a big pool warming party for friends from Wall Street. Lots of adult beverages served. Somebody fell off and broke an ankle.

   All I can say about it is that Wall Street Ankles are pretty expensive..

   Excellence is its own reward!

   "The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are." --Marcus Aurelius

1. 
   martagon | Nov 04, 2002 07:21am | #5

   It's a wonder he didn't sue you for refusing to make him put up the railing!!!

2. 
   BillHartmann | Nov 05, 2002 12:36am | #6

   Try looking under mezzanines.

   http://www.lapeyrestair.com/ Then click on codes.

   It appears that ladders are allowed for lofts under some conditions. I am not sure if any of the conditions that they list are for residential use.