Light under Steps??

I would like to put a light under my steps in my basement. The steps will be boxed in from both sides (length of the steps). I would like to use the space for storage but it would be nice to have a light in there to see a little better.
Am I allowed by code to put a light under the steps?
Should I run the wire down the steps and back through the wall or can I just go straight through the step supports(not sure that is a good idea?


Thanks for the help!

RM

 

Yes, you can put a light there. Make sure you line the steps with 5/8" Type-X fire rated drywall. This is a building code for any understairs space used for storage. Seal any openings, including one you might make to run a cable through.

Run the wire any way you want, as long as it is protected from physical damage and as long as the wire is not a trip hazard. Of course this means that it's someplace where you can't step on it or even bump it. It can't be on the surface of the steps or wall.

 

John what do you mean line the steps. Do I use this along the side of the steps, under the steps or where.

 

I've seen different interpretations in different juristictions. But in my city, the inspector is quite clear. When you look into the storage area under the stairs, you should see nothing but 5/8" Type X drywall (and the floor). His interpretation is that you must cover everything under the stairs (i.e., the walls and the sloping ceiling).

However, in other areas, the inspector seems to let them get by with just covering the sloping ceiling and not the walls.

This isn't just some picky code issue. When a fire breaks out, you really do what those stairs to stay intact long enough for you to get out.

 

My basement stairs aren't covered with anything, they're just open. Are you saying I need to add drywall under the stairs. I also wasn't going to frame the understair storage, are you saying that I should Drywall the closet.
The storage is half under the stairs and extends another 9 feet. The back wall I was going to leave exposed (concrete foundation), then I was considering using the 1 1/2 steel track and studs and was going to frame it out (I don't care about insulating a storage closet I will insulate the wall exposed to the room).
I should install this 5/8 type X drywall inside the whole storage area, is that what you're saying?

 

You said:So what's that mean?

 

John, I know this is off of the subject, but it has really caught my interest and I wasn't sure of the correct place to post. You mentioned that the bottom of the stairs must be covered in drywall if the space is to be used for storage. What about the bottom of the stairs connecting the first and second floors? The bottom of my stairway is exposed in the basement and I was wondering if any codes were being violated.

 

I'm not familiar with the exact text of the requirement, but if the area under the stairs is not enclosed, or if the area is enclosed but there is no access to it for storage, then the requirement does not apply.

At issue I suppose with some of this discussion is the exactly definition of "enclosed".