The Boss’s Daughter

Top 5 Kitchen Code Violations (and How to Avoid Them) 

 Remodeling wisdom from The Boss’s Daughter 

If you’re dreaming up your perfect kitchen — modern finishes, custom cabinets, all the Pinterest vibes, you’ll want to make sure that dream doesn’t come with a surprise visit from the building inspector. Kitchen remodels are one of the most code-sensitive areas in a home, and skipping the nitty-gritty kitchen code requirements (like outlet placement or venting) can lead to costly corrections. 

At Toupin Construction, we’ve been remodeling kitchens across the East Bay since the 80s, and let me tell you, we’ve seen our fair share of repeat offenders. So here it is: our top code violations list for kitchens (and how we keep your project safe, legal, and stress-free). 

 Notice on each side of the stove a GFCI

1. Missing or Improper GFCI Protection 

The violation: Outlets near water sources (like sinks) are required to have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection. This one tops our kitchen code violations list for a reason. 

Why it matters: GFCIs protect against electrocution by cutting power if a fault is detected. Without them, you're risking safety, especially in a space where water and appliances love to mingle. 

Toupin Tip: We always install GFCI outlets where required and upgrade older systems to meet current kitchen code requirements. 

2. Not Enough Dedicated Circuits 

The violation: Kitchens need multiple circuits to safely handle the load of major appliances like your fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and garbage disposal. Sharing a circuit across too many outlets is a no-go. 

Why it matters: Overloaded circuits can trip breakers, damage appliances, or even cause a fire. 

Toupin Tip: We design your kitchen layout and electrical plan to support your lifestyle and appliance load without overworking your system. 

3. Poor Ventilation or Missing Range Hood 

The violation: California kitchen code requirements call for proper ventilation over your cooktop, typically with a range hood that vents to the outside (not into your attic -- yikes). 

Why it matters: Ventilation removes grease, moisture, and combustion gases. Without it, you're inviting mold, stale air, and potential health risks into your home. 

Toupin Tip: Our team ensures your venting is both up to code and in line with your kitchen style. Yes, you can have a gorgeous vent hood and breathe easy too. 

4. Inadequate Clearance Around Appliances 

The violation: There are specific clearance kitchen code requirements around stoves, ovens, and even refrigerators. That “tight squeeze” layout you saw on Instagram? It might actually be a violation. 

Why it matters: Clearance issues aren’t just inconvenient. They can be unsafe and could cause your final inspection to fail. 

Toupin Tip: We design with both flow and code in mind. Every door opens fully, and no one’s bumping into a hot oven while reaching for the fridge. 

5. Lighting That Doesn’t Meet Code 

The violation: California’s Title 24 energy standards require a mix of high-efficacy lighting (like LED) and proper placement for task lighting. Recessed can lights with outdated bulbs no longer meet the mark. 

Why it matters: It’s about both safety and energy efficiency. Good lighting reduces accidents and helps cut your energy bill. 

Toupin Tip: We blend function and form so your kitchen shines. From gorgeous pendants to properly lit prep zones, your lighting will look great and pass inspection. 

Final Thoughts from The Boss’s Daughter 

Remodeling a kitchen isn’t just about making it pretty (although, yes please). It’s about making it safe, functional, and code-compliant. We take that part seriously so you don’t have to stress. Whether you’re in Rossmoor, Walnut Creek, or anywhere in the East Bay, our team at Toupin Construction is here to help you get it right the first time. 

Got kitchen dreams? Let’s build them with style, function, and no violations in sight. 

 Directly behind the faucet is another GFCI