Each area has different "codes". I would think GFCI outlets would be required in most if not all areas for kitchens and baths especially since there was a kitchen remodel. To me, it would put up a red flag that you didnt get a building permit for the kitchen because there are no GFCI outlets. (Maybe not be required in your area, but it is in mine.) They cost less than $20 and the average homeowner can put them in, why not do it before the home inspection? Either way, not having GFCI switches is hardly a deal breaker, its a low cost fix.

Generally, in most places, any renovation requires upgrading to code. If your town requires permits, and you did not obtain them, now is the timeÂÂbut have the GFCI's installed firstÂ.BEFORE the town inspects.

That said, HI's do NOT inspect for code violations...that is beyond the scope in accordance with the nationally accepted SOP's.

However, the DO site safety issuesÂÂand GFCI's are indeed a safety issue. Any HI worth his salt will recommend that they be installed. That said, if you violated town codeÂ...this will come to light. Better to be pro-active and take care of the issue properly and promptly...and get all permits and approvals from the town in order to have the best chance that the buyers don't back out of the deal on concerns of what other unseen things may have been skipped during the renovation.

You also may be required to install additional outlets if you did not do so already, as most places require quite a few in the kitchen in order to eliminate the use of extension cords. Our house in NJ was built in Â99Âand I have so many kitchen outlets due to code that I actually hide some with artwork as I do not use half of them.

That said, be aware that a final approval unfortunately does not mean that all was done properly behind the walls...that is why some towns/cities will require tear out to be sure...others just impose fines...while others just inspect and issue approvals on the finished job. StupidÂ...but true none the less.

The only way to know for sure is to call you local code officialÂs office (if there is one)Â..and ask.

I bought a house that had been updated and had some stuff added who knows when. At the time I didn't know to ask or check about permits.
The kitchen and bath had been updated, new counters and flooring and wall covering. The home inspector pointed out no GFCI's in both rooms. I did not require the home owner to do it, I had it done later.

DH decided to go ahead and put the GFCI's in today. We didn't need a building permit when we put in new cabinets and counter tops. We have gone through the house and found a few other little things we think will be a problem (like a couple of plugs in the basement without covers)so we just returned from a trip to Lowes. He is downstairs right now working on them.

Good for you!
Kathy G in MI