Commercial Building Inspector B2General Administration, Permits, and PlansMedium
A commercial building inspector is reviewing plans for a new 3-story Group R-2 apartment building. The building is located on a lot where the property line is 8 feet from the exterior wall. What is the minimum fire-resistance rating required for this exterior bearing wall?
- A3 hours
- B2 hours
- C1 hour
- D0 hours
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 1 hour
According to IBC Table 602, for Group R-2 construction, an exterior bearing wall located 8 feet from the property line requires a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance rating.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 3 hours is typically for interior bearing walls in Type I-A construction or exterior walls very close to the property line in high-hazard groups.
- B. 2 hours would be required if the distance to the property line was less than 5 feet, or for higher-risk occupancies.
- D. 0 hours (non-rated) is typically for walls more than 10 or 30 feet from the property line, depending on occupancy and construction type.
Exterior Wall Fire Rating (Distance to Property Line)
The fire-resistance rating required for an exterior wall is dependent on the construction type, occupancy group, and the distance from the exterior wall to the property line. Closer proximity to the property line generally necessitates a higher rating to prevent fire spread to adjacent properties.
- Rating depends on distance to property line.
- Also influenced by occupancy group and construction type.
- IBC Table 602 is the primary reference.
Memory trick: The 'Property Line Protector' ensures your wall is strong enough for its distance.