Outdoor Kitchen Inspection

Gas line must be properly sized and pressure-tested. Shut-off valve required at the appliance. Quick-disconnect fittings must be approved type.

1. Check for dedicated gas shut-off valve at the outdoor kitchen

2. Verify gas line is properly supported and protected from damage

3. Test connections with soapy water — no bubbles (leaks) at any joint

4. Check that gas line material is approved for outdoor use (no indoor-only flex connectors)

5. Verify proper clearances around the grill and burners

6. Check that the grill area has adequate ventilation (not enclosed)

7. Verify LP tank storage (if applicable) is properly ventilated and away from ignition sources

- Gas leaks at connections

- Indoor gas connectors used outdoors (UV damage, corrosion)

- No shut-off valve at appliance

- Grill too close to combustible materials

- LP tank in enclosed space

- Gas line not properly supported

Outdoor kitchen structure must withstand weather. Countertops must be weather-resistant material. Frame should be non-combustible near grill.

1. Check structural frame material — steel studs or masonry near grill (not wood framing adjacent to heat sources)

2. Verify countertop material is weather-resistant (granite, concrete, tile — not laminate)

3. Check that all materials are rated for outdoor use

4. Verify proper drainage — countertops should shed water

5. Check cabinet doors and drawers — should operate smoothly

6. Inspect weatherproofing at wall connections

7. Verify adequate workspace around cooking area

- Wood framing next to grill (fire hazard)

- Indoor materials used outdoors (deteriorate quickly)

- No drainage — water pools on countertops

- Countertop not sealed (staining)

- Cabinet materials not weather-resistant

All outdoor electrical must be weather-rated and GFCI protected. In-use covers required on outlets. Lighting should be adequate for cooking safety.

1. Test all outlets with GFCI tester — must be GFCI protected

2. Check outlet covers — must be "in-use" type (weatherproof even when plugged in)

3. Verify all wiring is in weatherproof conduit or rated for direct burial

4. Test lighting — should adequately illuminate cooking and prep areas

5. Check that light fixtures are rated for wet locations

6. Verify all switches and outlets are weather-rated

7. Check for dedicated circuit for high-draw appliances

- Missing GFCI protection

- Standard indoor outlets used outdoors

- No in-use covers on outlets

- Inadequate lighting for safe cooking

- Indoor-rated fixtures used outdoors

- Wiring not in conduit