---
id: 2026-03-25T08:14:59-0400
title: 2026-03-25 08:14:59
tags:
  - status/draft
  - occupational/takeoff
date-created: 2026-03-25T08:14:59-04:00
daily: "[[2026-03-25]]"
---
# 2026-03-25 08:14:59

## "Free-Air Per Code"

Direction for [[telecom-takeoff]] and [[low-voltage-takeoff]]
concerning the proper interpretation of "free-air per code"
as used by [[pdi-bid-estimating|Bid]] to qualify our scope.
Relevant to [[charlotte-south-end-hotel]].

> [!quote] Charlotte South End Proposal 2025-12-12 Ex. B Notes
> * All Fire Alarm and Low Voltage cabling
>     is to \[be\] installed via free-air
>     in all areas excepted \[sic.\] by code

Strictly speaking, requirements for communications wiring
(governed by [[nfpa-70_national-electric-code#Chapter 8 Communications Systems|NEC Chapter 8]])
are minimal.

> [!quote] [[joel-jansen]] 2026-03-24 (pp.)
> If rough-in for Telecom or a Low Voltage system is included,
> even if qualified as "free-air per code" or similar,
> always provide backboxes and conduit stub-ups for outlets
> in other than units[^1].

Joel confirmed this direction is not region specific.

[^1]: Where "free-air per code" applies to units,
    conduit and backboxes should never be provided for Telecom or LV.
    See [[2026-04-01_13-24-18#Unit Telecom/LV Outlets Where "Free-Air Per Code"]]