Franchise Info
Inspector testing appliances during a home inspection: dishwasher mid-cycle, stove ignition, and laundry machines—all photographed for function and documentation.

What We Look For (And What We Don’t): Kitchen & Laundry Appliance Checks During a Home Inspection

Technically, most inspection standards—like NACHI and ASHI—don’t require appliance testing. They’re considered “personal property” and outside of scope. But here’s the thing: appliances break, leak, or just stop working all the time. They’re also expensive. That’s why I inspect and test them anyway—and I document everything.

Our approach at Inspections Over Coffee is simple: if the appliance is permanently installed, plugged in, and safe to test, we’re going to make sure it works.

What I Actually Test and Document

  • Dishwasher – I run a full or partial cycle, checking for leaks, drainage, door seal, and proper startup. I take a video.
  • Stove and Oven – I test all burners and the oven at bake temperature. I document temperature rise on digital readouts and take photos of ignition (gas or electric).
  • Microwave – I test basic function with a cup of water and confirm it spins, heats, and stops properly.
  • Washer and Dryer (if installed) – I turn them on briefly to check operation and listen for abnormal noise or vibration. If connected, I document that they powered up and cycled.
  • Refrigerator (if present and running) – I note interior temps, leaks, or visible damage—but I don’t make temperature guarantees.

What I’m Looking For—And What I’m Not

  • ✅ I’m looking for: appliances that power on, run basic cycles, don’t leak, and don’t present safety risks. I take video/photo proof of each one tested.
  • ❌ I’m not testing: appliance diagnostics, Wi-Fi features, water line pressures, or internal temps beyond what’s visible. And if it’s unplugged or clearly unsafe? I leave it alone and note it.

Why This Goes Above Industry Standards

Just to be clear: NACHI, ASHI, and most state boards don’t require appliance testing. They classify most appliances as “beyond scope.” But we believe that ignoring them is a missed opportunity to protect the client. If the dishwasher leaks or the oven doesn’t turn on, that’s something a buyer deserves to know—before they move in.

FAQs: Appliance Testing During Home Inspections

Do all home inspectors test appliances?

No. Many don’t. Industry standards don’t require it, and some inspectors skip them entirely. At Inspections Over Coffee, we test and document them as long as they’re connected and safe to operate.

What if the appliance is unplugged?

If an appliance is unplugged or appears unsafe, I don’t test it. I document the condition and let the client know. Sometimes sellers disconnect units intentionally.

Can you guarantee the fridge is cold enough or the oven is accurate?

No. I verify that they power on and respond to controls, but I don’t calibrate temps or guarantee long-term performance. That’s outside the scope of a home inspection.

Do you include appliance issues in the inspection report?

Yes. I note what was tested, whether it operated normally, and include video or photo proof. It’s included in the digital report along with system notes.

→ Next up: Post 27: The Fireplace and Chimney — What’s in Scope for Your Inspection

← Previously: Post 25: Inspecting Garage Safety — More Than Just a Door Test

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