No firewall in duplex attic.....

[George E. Russell]

I could use, and would be grateful for, a good narrative for no firewall between units in the attic of a duplex. Thanks in advance!

[Marcel R. Cyr]

Originally Posted by grussell

I could use, and would be grateful for, a good narrative for no firewall between units in the attic of a duplex. Thanks in advance!

Upon entering the attic space, my observations showed that no fire separation has been provided to separate the two units.
Two-family dwellings, in most jurisdictions, are typically separated from each other by a wall and/or floor assemblies having not less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating.
They usually extend to the underside of the roof sheathing or exterior wall assemblies.
Checking with the local Jurisdiction could confirm this requirement.

Hope this helps.

[mstankiewicz]

Sure would be nice to see a picture. Is it possible the the floors have 5/8" type x drywall and there is a draft stop vertically in attic?

[Christopher Currins]

Some jurisdictions (many) allow 5/8" drywall at ceiling in place of attic separation.

[Jae Williams]

Originally Posted by ccurrins

Some jurisdictions (many) allow 5/8" drywall at ceiling in place of attic separation.

5/8" drywall...

1/2" Gypsum type X...

two layers of 1/2" drywall...

...around these parts anyway.

In as much as the garage probably already has 1/2" drywall in the ceiling and on the house wall, adding another 1/2" might prove the less expensive method.

Then there's the issue of exposed wood framing around the hatch!

Or a wooden pull-down ladder...

[ROBERT V. YOUNG]

You had many to help you. Here is some technical.
http://sdinspections.com/understanding-firewalls

[George E. Russell]

Thanks all!

[ROBERT V. YOUNG]

Good luck.