For this reason the nec has protection requirements for nm cables in an attic.
Is conduit required in attic.
It will be easier to repair wires if there is a short in the line.
There are a few rules you need to follow but conduit is not one of them.
I m building a new home outside the city limits in liberty county in texas my electrician ran the main power feed wire from the meter through the exterior wall up into the attic and down into the breaker panel without any conduit.
It is not required by the nec in a residential attic.
Using conduits will ensure that your wires are kept together.
I once knew of a town that required all residential circuits be run in conduit.
Always check in with the local building code authority.
Conduit also protects your wires from exposed surfaces such as rough bricks in a basement.