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What Do Home Inspectors Look for When Inspecting Kitchens?

Kitchens are often considered the heart of the home, but they’re also one of the busiest areas when it comes to wear and tear. During a home inspection, we pay special attention to kitchens because of their mix of plumbing, electrical systems, appliances, and surfaces. Here’s what we look for in kitchens and why it matters to buyers and sellers.

1. Plumbing and Water Systems

Kitchens rely heavily on functional plumbing for sinks, dishwashers, and sometimes refrigerators. During an inspection,

we:



• Check for leaks under the sink and around plumbing connections.
• Test water flow and drainage to ensure there are no clogs or slow drains.
• Look for signs of water damage, such as stains, warped cabinets, or soft flooring near plumbing fixtures.

Why It Matters: Leaks and drainage issues can lead to hidden mold, warped cabinetry, or long-term structural damage if not addressed.

2. Electrical Safety

With all the appliances and outlets in a kitchen, electrical safety is crucial.

We inspect:

• GFCI outlets near sinks to ensure they trip properly when tested.
• The electrical panel for circuits handling major appliances like stoves and dishwashers.
• Light fixtures and switches to ensure they’re functioning safely.

Why It Matters: Properly functioning electrical systems reduce fire hazards and ensure the safety of the home’s occupants.

3. Appliances

While we don’t perform full diagnostic tests on appliances,

we do check:

• Built-in appliances like stoves, ovens, dishwashers, and microwaves to ensure they’re operational.
• Range hoods or ventilation systems for proper functionality and exhaust venting.
• Refrigerators and garbage disposals for basic operation if they’re included in the sale.

Why It Matters: Buyers want to know that major appliances are functional and won’t require immediate repairs or replacement.

4. Cabinets and Countertops

Cabinets and countertops may not be mechanical systems, but their condition speaks volumes about the care and maintenance of the kitchen.

We:

• Check for loose, damaged, or misaligned cabinet doors and drawers.
• Inspect countertops for cracks, chips, or water damage near sinks.
• Look for signs of improper sealing that could lead to moisture penetration.

Why It Matters: These surfaces are not only functional but also a major aesthetic feature of the kitchen. Damage can lower the overall impression of the space.

5. Ventilation and Airflow

Proper ventilation in kitchens helps prevent odors, grease buildup, and excess moisture.

We look at:

• The range hood or exhaust fan to ensure it’s venting correctly, ideally to the exterior of the home.
• Windows for functionality as a secondary source of ventilation.

Why It Matters: Poor ventilation can lead to lingering smells, mold growth, and even damage to cabinetry and walls over time.

6. Flooring

The kitchen floor sees a lot of traffic and is susceptible to spills and moisture.

We inspect:

• Flooring materials for wear and tear, such as scratches, stains, or water damage.
• Areas near sinks and dishwashers for soft spots or warping that may indicate hidden moisture issues.

Why It Matters: Damaged flooring can signal underlying issues that might not be immediately visible.

The Bigger Picture

Kitchens are a major selling point in any home, and ensuring they’re safe, functional, and free of issues is critical for buyers. From plumbing and electrical systems to cabinets and appliances, every detail contributes to the overall condition of the space.

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