View Full Version : Exposed wire
pauto
Apr 28, 2008, 10:43 AM
Ok, I'm finishing my basement. I have a family room and a bedroom. My question is that I will also be putting in a bathroom later, much later. But I want to run the wires for the bath so they can inspect them. So do wires have to be hidden behind sheet rock at the final inspection or what's the rule of thumb on this? I'm using 12-2 NM-B wire. Eventually they will be hidden but, I want to get the final done because we will be using the bedroom before the bath will be completed.
donf
Apr 28, 2008, 12:06 PM
Never leave wires exposed.
In your situation, I would suggest that you install the outlet boxes now and then curl your conductors and put them inside the box. Then put a blank faceplate to cover the wires. Personally I would place wire nuts over each conductor.
ballengerb1
Apr 28, 2008, 12:33 PM
Pauto, I think we may get confused by your terminology. I think you are asking should you hold off on drywall until after the electric inspection, right? You aren't really talking about exposed wires are you, you mean cable in the wall that can be seen, right?
pauto
Apr 28, 2008, 01:20 PM
Yes, the cable. Can it be visible? I'm running it from the panel through a open ceiling and down a open studded wall to an outlet box and then up to a pull string light.
My question is can the cable (NM-B 12-2) be visible at FINAL inspection when they check the power? Or does it have to be concealed under sheetrock.
Sorry, I'm not leaving live wires hang out. That would be silly.
stanfortyman
Apr 28, 2008, 01:53 PM
IMO if you have ALL the devices, plates and fixtures installed you would be fine.
This is certainly the inspector's call though.
ballengerb1
Apr 28, 2008, 03:29 PM
I agree, its OK to not have the drywall up but switches, fixtures and covers need to be in place.