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Interpretation #8551

Original Request

  • Requested By: mario soto
  • Requester E-Mail: soto@miamidade.gov
  • Code Version: 2021
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter:
  • Section: 1203.2
  • Topic: Attic & rafter space ventilation

  • Question: Is it the intent of 1203.2 to require ventilation of attic & rafter spaces ONLY where the ceiling is directly attached to the underside of the framing members?

Answer:

The ventilation requirement of 1203.2 applies to ENCLOSED attics and ENCLOSED rafter spaces. If the enclosed area is enclosed by roof sheathing on the top, and building ceiling on the bottom, it is enclosed for ventilation purposes. Having the ceiling suspended by furring strips does not change the fact that the attic or rafter spaces are enclosed.
On 08/24/2021 at 11:50 AM

Commentary:

If the ceiling is not applied directly to the underside of the roof framing members, the section does not apply, such as with a suspended ceiling. However, a ceiling attached to furring strips that are attached directly to the underside of roof framing members to be creating an enclosed attic space should be considered as attached directly to the rafters. A note for our hot, humid, windy climate, please note that unvented attics are permitted when constructed per Section 1203.3.