This week we continue with our inspection series highlighting the different areas in a home. This week: The Kitchen.

Kitchen Inspections

Often considered the heart of the home, kitchens are a hub of activity that deserves special attention during an inspection. Here are the primary things we inspect when looking at your kitchen:

Cabinets & Countertops

I like to start my inspection of a kitchen by looking at the cabinets and countertops. We check for any cracks/chips in the counter, proper caulking, and any issues with the backsplash. Common issues are cracks in the countertop, chips around the sink, missing grout in the backsplash, as well as cracked caulk between the counter and backsplash. Cabinet inspections primarily consist of identifying concerns with the proper function of doors or drawers and noting damage. Common issues involve broken/loose hardware and water damage below the sink. We expect to see normal wear and tear to cabinets and countertops in a kitchen and try to point out specific concerns that merit special attention. Inspection of cabinets in a new house is more thorough, noting damage or issues that need repair.

Electrical

There are usually numerous outlets throughout a kitchen. Any outlet within 6 feet of the kitchen sink needs to be GFCI protected. In newer houses, all of the kitchen outlets will have this protection. Issues we commonly see include a lack of GFCI protection as well as ungrounded outlets, especially in older homes. We also check to make sure all lights and switches are operating properly. 

Appliances

Most kitchens we inspect have a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. We evaluate all the appliances for proper operation. Common issues include stove burners that won’t light, loose/damaged handles, ice makers/water dispensers not functioning, as well as burned-out light bulbs in refrigerators, under microwaves, and inside ovens. We also test vent fans above the stove to ensure they are operating properly and are not restricted or venting into the attic space. 

Plumbing

Inspecting the plumbing in a kitchen involves testing the sink faucet for water pressure and proper operation. We are also looking for plumbing leaks, ensuring the disposal is operating properly and not too noisy, looking for slow/clogged drains, and making sure the dishwasher is running properly without leaking. Corrosion on pipes as well as leaks are common issues we discover. Any active plumbing leaks are always a major concern and need immediate attention. 

In addition to these kitchen-specific items, we are also looking at the walls, ceiling, floors, windows, etc.