Had a similar experience myself—our inspector was pretty thorough, but honestly, it wasn't as stressful as I'd expected. We were mid-reno too (seems like everyone is these days!), and I remember panicking about the mess and dust the night before. But here's what helped us get through it without too much hassle:
First, we cleared pathways around appliances and electrical outlets—inspectors tend to focus there, like you mentioned. Just a quick sweep or vacuum around those areas can make a surprising difference. Second, we made sure ventilation ducts and exhaust fans were accessible and visibly clear. Inspectors seem to love checking airflow and clearances, probably because it's an easy thing to flag if something's off.
Also, don't underestimate lighting. We had a couple of temporary work lights set up to brighten the space, which seemed to put our inspector in a better mood (or maybe I'm imagining that!). Either way, good lighting makes it easier for them to see clearly and feel confident that nothing's hidden.
Lastly—and this might sound silly—but having your paperwork organized and ready goes a long way. Permits, appliance manuals, receipts for recent work... inspectors appreciate when you have your ducks in a row. It shows you're taking things seriously even if your kitchen looks like chaos.
I'm curious though—has anyone noticed inspectors paying special attention to plumbing setups during kitchen renos? Ours spent quite some time under the sink area checking connections and clearances. Wondering if that's common or just our inspector being extra cautious...
Interesting points, but honestly, I've found inspectors aren't always consistent. Our last one barely glanced under the sink but spent forever checking electrical wiring behind appliances. Seems like each inspector has their own pet focus areas... guess it's luck of the draw sometimes.
"Seems like each inspector has their own pet focus areas... guess it's luck of the draw sometimes."
Haha, totally relate to this! When we had our historic home inspected, the guy spent ages obsessing over a tiny crack in the plaster ceiling—meanwhile, completely ignored the ancient plumbing that literally gurgles like a haunted house every night. I guess inspectors are like us homeowners: we all have our quirks and blind spots. Good luck tomorrow...maybe distract him with fresh coffee and cookies? Worked for us once.
I guess inspectors are like us homeowners: we all have our quirks and blind spots. Good luck tomorrow...maybe distract him with fresh coffee and cookies?
Haha, I feel you on the quirks thing. Inspectors definitely have their own little obsessions. When we had our kitchen remodel inspected, the guy barely glanced at the new wiring and instead spent forever questioning our eco-friendly countertop material choice. Go figure. Anyway, your coffee-and-cookie distraction method sounds solid...might just smooth things over if your kitchen's still a bit chaotic. You've got this!
Haha, inspectors definitely have their own pet peeves. Last time ours came through, he completely ignored the half-painted cabinets and zeroed in on the dishwasher hookup—spent ages explaining some obscure plumbing code I’d never even heard of. But yeah, coffee and cookies might just get you some goodwill points...worth a shot if things are still looking rough around the edges. Good luck tomorrow!
