Planning Home Maintenance Projects

Creating a Project Checklist for Kitchen and Bathroom Upkeep

Feb 12, 2008 Susan Whelan

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-maintenance areas in the home. Planning ahead and following a checklist for repairs and upgrades will save money and time.

Kitchens and bathrooms are notorious renovation money pits. Planning ahead can prevent rushing into unnecessarily expensive improvements. When moving into a new home, take the time to assess what changes need to be made before starting any renovation projects.

New Home Safety Assessment

Before compiling a list, it is important to consider who will be using the space. Kitchens, bathrooms and laundries are particular areas of safety concern, especially for young children.

  • Check hot water thermostat settings. BC Children’s Hospital recommends that a safe household hot water temperature is 49C (120F). It is important to check local council hot water safety restrictions and, if possible, to adjust the thermostat accordingly.
  • Do any cupboards require child-proof locks or safety catches? All cleaning products and chemicals should be clearly labelled and stored out of the reach of children. If there is no suitable place to keep such products, creating a safe storage location is a priority, especially if young children will be living in or visiting the home.
  • Is there adequate ventilation to ensure that mould does not become a problem, particularly in the bathroom and laundry?
  • Is current lighting sufficient for safe use of these areas? Are any additional lights needed?

Kitchen Checklist

  • Cabinets and countertops - Are they in good condition? Is there sufficient storage space for plates, cutlery, cups, cookware, and plastics? Will the countertops or cabinets need to be replaced in the future?
  • Pantry - Is there a pantry and will it be sufficient for the needs of the household? Are the shelves easily accessible, or are they too high or deep to provide useful storage space?
  • Refrigerator, microwave and kitchen appliances – Is there a space for a refrigerator in the immediate kitchen area? Is it large enough to fit the current household fridge? Is there a specific microwave shelf or is there sufficient counter space? Is there space for other appliances that are used regularly (electric kettle, food processor etc) while still leaving enough counter space for food preparation and general use?
  • Extra storage space – If any of the other storage areas are inadequate, is there space for shelves or a trolley for additional storage or workspace?
  • Plumbing – Are there any leaks and do the kitchen faucets work efficiently? Is there a water filtration system fitted and/or will one be needed? If there is a dishwasher, does it work adequately without leaks or other problems?
  • Oven and Cooktop – Are these working properly? Are all oven seals intact?

Bathroom Checklist

  • Shower and bath – Are any faucets or fittings dripping? Is the showerhead a water efficient model and if not, could one be fitted?
  • Tiles – Are any tiles cracked or missing grouting or sealant? Is mould affecting any of the tiled areas?
  • Towel rails – Is there sufficient room for towels. Is there a spot for a hand towel or guest towel?
  • Mirror – Is the bathroom mirror in good condition? Is the size adequate? Is it in the correct position with adequate lighting?
  • Storage – Is the bathroom washstand/vanity large enough to keep necessary personal products stored in the bathroom?
  • Toilet – Are the seat and cistern in good condition without leaks or damage? Is the cistern a water-saver model with a half and full flush? If not, can it be replaced?

By carefully assessing all of the above areas in the kitchen and bathroom and compiling a list of improvements needed, home renovations can be easily included in the household budget.

The copyright of the article Planning Home Maintenance Projects in Home Management is owned by Susan Whelan. Permission to republish Planning Home Maintenance Projects in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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