What We Look For (And What We Don’t): Why I Start Every Inspection with a RecallChek

The reason I start nearly every inspection by uploading model and serial numbers into RecallChek is because your appliances could literally be ticking time bombs. It’s not fearmongering—it’s just reality. There are thousands of active recalls on household systems, and most homeowners have no idea they’re living with a known hazard.

What Is a RecallChek, and Why Do I Use It?

Think of it like a VIN check for your appliances. I collect the model and serial numbers for major systems—furnace, A/C, dishwasher, oven, water heater, microwave—and run them through a national safety database. If there’s a recall, the report will show it. And just like your car, manufacturers are legally required to fix it for free.

But here’s the best part: it doesn’t just tell you what’s wrong *right now*. You’ll also get monthly updates moving forward. If a recall is issued two years from now, you’ll be notified. If you replace your fridge next month? You can add the new unit to your report. It’s not just a snapshot—it’s a living safety tracker.

Why This Comes First (Even Before the Roof)

Starting with RecallChek gives me more than just safety data. It shows me where all the key systems are, what condition they’re in, and whether anything looks off from the jump. I’ll often spot a mismatched HVAC unit, an undersized water heater, or a duct-taped microwave install before I’ve even gotten to the attic.

Plus, getting these data plates early means I’m not scrambling at the end or accidentally skipping something because it was hidden behind laundry baskets.

What I’m Looking For—And What I’m Not

• ✅ I’m looking for: clearly readable model and serial numbers on appliances and systems, correct installation dates, and whether they match the general condition of the property.
• ❌ I’m not looking for: cosmetic scratches, off-brand labels, or whether you “like” the appliances. Also, I don’t inspect portable or plug-in devices like countertop blenders or toasters.

I also don’t verify whether the recalled parts have already been replaced. I’ll flag the issue—but it’s up to the homeowner or buyer to follow through with the manufacturer. My job is to provide the info, not chase warranty repairs.

Why This Matters Long After I Leave

Even if everything in your home is working perfectly right now, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Some appliance recalls take years to surface. Others go unnoticed because manufacturers don’t always contact homeowners directly. When you get a RecallChek through us, you’re looped into an alert system that keeps working long after the inspection report is filed away.

All of our inspectors start with RecallChek because it’s low-effort, high-value, and potentially life-saving. And if you don’t know the safety status of your own appliances... who does?

FAQs: The Truth About Appliance Recalls

How does RecallChek work during a home inspection?

I take photos of the data plate (the tag with the model and serial number) for every built-in or major appliance—like the furnace, A/C, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and water heater. Those numbers are uploaded to RecallChek’s national database to check for manufacturer-issued recalls or defects.

What happens if something I own is recalled?

You’ll get a report showing any active recalls. Manufacturers are legally obligated to correct safety issues, typically at no cost to the homeowner. You can contact them with the report to schedule repairs or replacements.

Is this just a one-time scan, or does it keep updating?

It keeps updating. You’ll get monthly updates if a new recall is issued. If you replace appliances later, you can log into the portal and add them to your RecallChek list to keep the protection going.

Do you test the appliances for functionality too?

Yes, where it’s safe and allowed. I test appliances using normal operating controls. But if something’s shut down, disconnected, or unsafe to operate (like a gas oven with no visible shutoff), I won’t activate it. My job is to observe and report, not to damage or repair anything.

→ Next up: Post 4: Why Elevation Photos Matter in Your Home Inspection Report

← Previously: Post 2: How I Prepare for a Home Inspection the Right Way

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