Hey guys -

Need to run some new Romex in my unfinished attic. There are no stairs or ladder at the entry hole, as is completely what you'd consider an "unusable attic space."

My question is can I run Romex perpendicular across the ceiling joists (stapling at each one)? I'd rather not drill holes if I don't have to considering it's not close to the entry hole (more than 6 feet away).

Thoughts?

 

Yes, and you only need to secure at intervals of no more than 4 1/2', every truss is not needed.

 

Staples are fine for Romex. You probably won't have to staple it to every joist.

 

Does the ability to run it over joists (without drilling) end if I get within 6 feet of the entry hole? Or at what point will leaving the wire that exposed not suffice?

 

You don't have to drill holes no matter where the cable is running. Drilling through rafters and joists is for when that's the only way.

I would say the cable also doesn't need stapled, if you consider this "inaccessible" or you are going to great lengths just to get a few staples in.

 

If you can walk through, or there is designated storage in the attic, the cable needs to be protected with substantial framing (2x4). If it is a generally inaccessible attic, the cable needs protection only within 6' of the scuttle hole.

 

It only needs to be protected within 7' of the access hole. Add a running board next to the cable to prevent damage.

Trusses do not get drilled.

 

I once heard an inspector say, "if it has a scuttle hole, it is accessible." I think accessible is up to the AHJ.

 

Here is the NEC:

320.23 In Accessible Attics. Type AC cables in accessible attics or roof spaces shall be installed as specified in 320.23(A) and (B).
(A) Cables Run Across the Top of Floor Joists. Where
run across the top of floor joists, or within 2.1 m (7 ft) of
the floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studding,
the cable shall be protected by substantial guard strips that
are at least as high as the cable. Where this space is not
accessible by permanent stairs or ladders, protection shall
only be required within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the nearest edge of
the scuttle hole or attic entrance.
(B) Cable Installed Parallel to Framing Members.
Where the cable is installed parallel to the sides of rafters, studs, or ceiling or floor joists, neither guard strips nor running boards shall be required, and the installation shall also comply with 300.4(D).

This section also applies to Article 334, NM cables.