Prevent accidents and make your home safer by fixing these 3 common code violations.
Missing Or Defective GFCIs
Ground Fault Circuit Interruptor (GFCI) protection is required for outlets in the kitchen, bathroom, garage and for all outdoor circuits. It cuts power to a circuit if it detects a current changes, protecting against electrical shocks. Test for the presence of GFCIs by plugging in a GFCI receptacle tester into an outlet in each of these areas. It'll detect whether there's a GFCI on the circuit and other wiring problems, such as reverse polarity and open grounds.
Handrails Without Returns
Codes require handrails to have "returns" meaning they need to turn and end at the wall. Returns keep items such as sleeves and purse straps from getting caught on the end of the rails and causing a fall. Handrails need to be placed 34 to 38 inches above the nose of the stair treads and must be 1 1/4 to 2 3/8 inch thick.
Improper Bathroom Venting
Bathroom exhaust fans should vent to the outside, either through the roof or the side of the home, not into the attic. Stick your head into the attic to see how yours is vented. Venting the warm, moist air into the attic can cause rotting in the roof framing and sheathing and may not properly rid the bathroom of moisture, leading to mold and mildew.
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