Wow! Looks like someone reeeally doesn't want to have to clean the oven? Or perhaps, there is something going on underneath that foil?? Either way, while maybe a bit humorous at first, this should be a big red flag for any home inspector. Why? There's a bigger picture. The foil itself is not the only concern here. This situation may be indicative of a homeowner who would prefer to "cover up" (rather than address) other issues in the home. At this point, the inspector will be on high alert because of the likelihood of finding further maintenance concerns in other areas. There are few short-cuts when it comes to proper and safe home maintenance.
Why is this particular condition a concern? The wall has obviously been damaged from continually excessive heat at the range top, causing the paint to bubble. Grease on the range top and drywall is a fire hazard. Fortunately the drywall material would fire resistant.
At this point the inspector should also be thinking, what about the wall behind the visible damage? What may conductive heat damaged on the other side? Is there other damage that we're not seeing? Is there a heavy grease buildup elsewhere contributing to the potential of a fire? What is the ventilation configuration directly overhead? If so, is it laden with grease, possibly restricting dangerous gases from being properly ventilated? No matter what the answers to those questions may be, what is clear at this point is absolute evidence of overheating on the wall surface beside the kitchen range top.The new homeowner should repair or replace the overheated surface and consult with local municipal authorities, as well as the range manufacturer, regarding required clearances to adjacent walls.
So what's the Answer? Potential Fire Hazard
Thank you David Rothbart of our Northern Virginia Home Inspection Team. We very happy you took the opportunity to share this moment with our readers!
Posted at U.S. Inspect Blog.
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