Access panel for shower valve - is it required by code?

[Cme10ae]

I'm in Michigan, and am wondering if a plumbing access panel is required by code in a shower - general code I guess, I know nobody would know about my local codes.

 

[RioHyde]

Not sure if you're under the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or not. However, under IPC an access panel isnt required (sections 408 and 418). Its not a bad idea to have one though. Anytime I replace a tub and/or shower faucet in a home without an access panel the customer wishes there had been one installed.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[hj]

access

Not required and has no purpose unless you install a valve that you anticipate will wear out and need to be replaced in a few years. If that is the case, then you need a better faucet not an access panel.

 

[Mike Swearingen]

And they have the newer shower valve assemblies with the large estucheons that can be installed from the shower side. No back access required.
Mike