Okay, let's break down how the code might treat that small space and whether you need to create a new opening for an outlet. I'll also discuss the best-practice approach.

Understanding the Situation Small Space Defined

We're talking about a potentially awkward, small area adjacent to a masonry dumbwaiter shaft, with access to a living room, bathroom, kitchen, and potentially a closet.

Dumbwaiter Shaft

The masonry shaft itself is a critical factor. It's likely a fire-rated enclosure, meaning any penetration requires careful consideration to maintain that fire rating.

Nearby Outlets

You have outlets in adjacent rooms (living room, bath, kitchen) and the possibility of one in a closet.

Code Considerations (NEC in the US, or similar electrical codes elsewhere)

Here's a breakdown of common requirements, but always consult your local electrical code and a qualified electrician for definitive answers:1. General Requirements



Habitable Rooms

Typically, electrical codes require outlets to be spaced such that no point along the wall line is more than a certain distance (e.g., 6 feet in the US NEC) from an outlet. The goal is to avoid excessive use of extension cords. Is this 'small space' considered a habitable area? If not, this rule may not apply. It's not likely habitable in this situation, as its only access may be the dumbwaiter (which would obviously be a safety hazard to enter.)

Special Locations

Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas have specific outlet requirements (e.g., GFCI protection, dedicated circuits). These are relevant only if the small space is considered part of, or opens directly into, one of those locations.2.

Specific to Your Situation



Dumbwaiter Shaft Protection

Critically important. You absolutely cannot casually punch a hole in the masonry dumbwaiter shaft for an outlet. Doing so would likely violate fire safety regulations and could compromise the structural integrity of the shaft. Penetrating fire-rated assemblies (like a dumbwaiter shaft) requires specialized techniques, materials, and permits. It's highly unlikely to be permissible for a standard outlet.

Closets

Outlets are allowed in closets, but they often have restrictions. For example, they might need to be surface-mounted, and lighting inside the closet usually needs to be enclosed to prevent contact with stored items. Consult your local code.

Definition of the "Space"

How your local code defines habitable areas, rooms, or spaces is crucial. Is this considered a separate, definable space? If it's more of an alcove or pass-through, it might not be considered a space that requires its own outlet.

Analyzing the Need for an Outlet

Given what you've described, the question boils down to:1. Is this space considered a "habitable room" or a "separate definable space" by your local code? If not, general outlet spacing rules might not apply.2. What is the intended use of this space? Is it just a hallway, or is it intended for anything else?3. Can you provide adequate power to the space from an adjacent outlet, without using extension cords or other unsafe practices?Recommendations1. Do NOT attempt to penetrate the dumbwaiter shaft. This is almost certainly a code violation and a safety hazard.2. Consult a Qualified Electrician

This is essential. An electrician can assess the situation, review local codes, and advise you on the best and safest course of action. They can also perform the work properly and obtain any necessary permits.3.

Consider Options Before Creating a New Opening



Closet Outlet (If Allowed)

If there's a closet, investigate whether you can legally and safely place an outlet inside.

Run Conduit (Carefully)

If it is possible to run conduit from an existing outlet in an adjacent room (living room, kitchen), without violating code or compromising fire safety, this might be an option. This would involve surface-mounted conduit and careful attention to detail. An electrician would be needed to assess this.

Evaluate Actual Need

Be honest about whether you really need an outlet in this small space. If it's just a pass-through, and you can easily access outlets in adjacent rooms, you might not need one at all.

In Summary:

Don't drill into the dumbwaiter shaft. Consult a qualified electrician to determine the requirements of your local code and the safest, most compliant solution. It's highly probable you won't need* an outlet in this small space, especially if it's not considered a habitable room and you can adequately power any potential devices from nearby outlets. Flag for review