4 Top Things Inspected in the Kitchen – The Heart of the Home and All its Glory

Kitchen With Furniture and Appliances

A kitchen is the heart of every home. This is where cooking is done, families eat dinner together, homework is sometimes completed, meals are eaten and many memories are made. During a traditional home inspection, one area of the home that is thoroughly inspected is the kitchen.

A residential home inspection is the traditional home inspection completed when a buyer is purchasing a home. At Ellingwood Pro Home Inspections the residential home inspection is our most popular service. We use InterNACHI standards of practice to complete all home inspections. A residential home inspection includes an inspection of the exterior of the home, the interior of the home and an inspection of all systems and appliances.

During the interior inspection, an inspector will spend a lot of time inspecting the kitchen. Many items are inspected in the kitchen. I have broken down many popular areas of a kitchen that are inspected below.

square white sink with brass faucetPlumbing in the Kitchen

One thing every kitchen has is a kitchen sink. A small drip under the kitchen sink may seem minor but it can cause rotting under the cabinet or even a leak causing damage to the floors as well. An inspector will not just look under the kitchen sink, they will also look at all other plumbing in the kitchen and around the house. An inspector will look at the water shut-off valves, fixtures, faucets, and even the water heating system.

Appliances in the Kitchen

Another item all kitchens have is appliances. An inspector will check to make sure all appliances are in working order and not a safety hazard. The inspector will run the dishwasher to ensure it leaks, turn on the stove to make sure all the burners are working properly, and check over all other appliances as well. Inspectors will make notes of things that are not working for the client so they are aware of what appliances are working and what ones are broken and need to be replaced. Many times inspectors will note if any appliances pose a safety hazard.

For example, if a range is not fastened to the floor or it does not have an anti tip device, it will be noted in the report as it can be a safety concern for small children. Another item that is frequently inspected in kitchens is the vent or range hood. The inspector will ensure the vent hood turns on and it is vented properly.

Electrical and Outlets in the Kitchenblack usb cable plugged in white electric socket

The appliances in a kitchen cannot run without electricity so another important item in a kitchen is all electrical wiring and outlets. The electrical and outlets are checked throughout the home but in the kitchen, the inspector will check all outlets to ensure they are working properly and keep an eye out for any potential electrical hazards as well.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and the location of many electrical items such as the refrigerator, coffee maker, toaster, light fixtures, and many more. The inspector will also inspect to make sure all electrical wiring is a safe distance from plumbing in the kitchen as well.

Mold and Mildew in the Kitchen

Another item that is reviewed and noted during an inspection is mold and mildew. If the inspector notices signs of mildew or mold it will be noted in the report and in many cases, an additional mold inspection may be needed. Mold and mildew can grow in areas where water gathers so under the kitchen sink, behind the refrigerator and a leaking dishwasher can all cause mold damage.

Kitchen and Dining AreaThe kitchen is the heart of the home and one of the areas of the house that gets the most traffic. The kitchen is thoroughly inspected during a residential home inspection and will focus on many different things to ensure the house is safe.

The kitchen is a huge area of the home and can be a large determining factor on if someone chooses to continue with purchasing a home or walk away. Inspect before you buy to ensure your kitchen is safe and perfect in every way before buying a home.

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