Readiness check

Is your outdoor kitchen safe and built to last?

An outdoor kitchen puts gas, electrical, plumbing, and appliances out in the weather, and two things make or break it: the gas done to code with a ventilated cabinet so a leak cannot pool, and materials built for the outdoors. Answer for how it is actually built. This is general guidance; confirm with the gas code, the manufacturer, and the AHJ. The score stays on your device; enter an email only if you want the outdoor kitchen checklist sent over.

1. Is the gas installed to code by a licensed pro (sizing, shutoff, leak test, permit)?Yes, code gas by a licensed pro, permittedA handyman ran itDIY gas, no permit

2. Is the cabinet ventilated so a gas leak cannot pool (low vents for heavier-than-air LP)?Yes, vented per the gas typeA couple of holesSealed enclosure, no venting

3. Is the cabinet non-combustible (masonry or metal stud + cement board, not wood)?Yes, non-combustible constructionWood with cement board over itWood-framed

4. Are the appliances outdoor-rated (not indoor units that rust and become a gas hazard)?Yes, outdoor-rated appliancesMixedIndoor appliances outside

5. Are combustible clearances held around the grill and burners?Yes, manufacturer clearances keptTight in spotsHeat right against combustibles

6. Are the counters outdoor-rated (granite, concrete, porcelain, not laminate)?Yes, dense outdoor-rated countersBorderline materialLaminate or indoor stone

7. Is the electrical outdoor-rated with GFCI and in-use covers?Yes, GFCI and outdoor-rated devicesSome protectionIndoor devices, no GFCI

8. Is the plumbing winterized in a cold climate (shut off and drain to prevent freeze)?Yes, a winterizing planWe will figure it outNo freeze plan