It’s November 2015, the requirements for Arc Fault Protection has been around for 15 years. During my inspections in the last couple of month I have found that most still feel that the bedrooms are the only locations that require this type of protection. So for the changes in the 2011 NEC they are none for the rooms that need this type of protection. The list below comes from the 2008 and the 2011 NEC. It did not change for 2011 it has been in effect since the 2008 NEC was adopted.
The following areas require Arc Fault protection.
FAMILY ROOMS
DINING ROOMS
LIVING ROOMS
PARLORS
LIBRARIES
DENS
BEDROOMS
SUNROOMS
RECREATION ROOMS
CLOSETS
HALLWAYS
AND THE CATCH ALL “SIMILAR ROOMS OR AREAS” This one will be up to the AHJ inspecting your work.
The areas that do not require Arc Fault protection include:
KITCHENS
BATHROOMS
GARAGES
These all require GFCI protection.
So when you get the correction notice to include Arc Fault protection be aware that it is not new, it has been required for at least six or seven years.
If you have questions please email me and I will get back to you.
So until next time Have a Happy Thanksgiving, and be safe.
Jake