decks and rails

[cridgely01]

Does FHA have a guideline for decks needing rails...My property has a rear wooden deck without rails..its 18 inches off the ground. Is this a safety issue....?

 

[lizhorvath]

Check with the building department at the local municipality. They'll have requirements of heights that require railings.
Perhaps one of the FHA certs will have a more specific answer for you.
Good luck!

 

[cridgely01]

I appreciate your input--I tried checking online and couldnt find the regs---just thought I'd try this as a second option.....I believe there must be a rail requirement--just not sure of the height....

 

[Wayne Tomlinson]

I would just call it an open porch, and forget about it.

Might be sure that it shows in a photo.
Wayne Tomlinson

 

[Mark to market]

I do not know if your area uses the International Residential Code but if they do here is reg R312.1

Porches, balconies, ramps or raised floor surfaces located more then 30 inches above the floor or grade below shall have a guard not less the 36 inches in height.

 

[CBBoston]

And the spindles can't be more than 4 inches apart or form a ladder. i.e. they must be horizontal. But check your local regs to be sure.

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

18"...hmmm. For me that would be a pretty big step. I think I could get hurt falling off that too. Sounds like a safety issue to me. If you are doing an FHA, call the HOC and talk to someone.

 

[cridgely01]

I also believe 18" is a big step....this is an FHA appraisal...Im sure nobody will actually notice the height from the picture of the rear of the house but I need to know if the dwelling meets the minimum housing standards for HUD...I cant find a reference for decks requirements in the guidelines and so I will do as you suggest...The local authorities referred by to the international codes ....

 

[Mike Boyd]

All the ones I am familiar with say 30" or higher from grade need a rail as CBBoston describes. BUT, I agree with Mike G and Cridgley that it could be considered a safety hazard at 18" with no barrier. I would require some kind of barrier in order to minimize any accidents. Let the underwriter eliminate it if he/she wants to.

 

[Michigan CG]

And the spindles can't be more than 4 inches apart or form a ladder. i.e. they must be horizontal. But check your local regs to be sure.

I think you mean vertical.