Kitchen Renovation — FAQ
Do rental properties require ducted range hoods?
Most codes require ventilation, but not necessarily ducted. Ducted hoods perform better and remove moisture, preventing mold issues that cause expensive repairs. Convertible models offer the best of both worlds for property owners.
What's the minimum CFM for a rental property?
Building code minimum is typically 100 CFM intermittent or 25 CFM continuous. For practical tenant use, aim for 300-450 CFM to handle actual cooking. Anything less leads to complaints about lingering odors and grease buildup.
How often should rental property hood filters be cleaned?
Clean filters between every tenant turnover—typically every 12 months. In high-turnover units or with heavy-cooking tenants, inspect quarterly. Dirty filters reduce performance and become fire hazards, increasing liability.
Can I install a range hood myself in a rental property?
Under-cabinet models with existing ductwork are DIY-friendly if you're comfortable with basic electrical. New ductwork, wall-mount, or insert installations require a licensed contractor to meet code and protect your insurance coverage.
What's better for rentals: button or gesture controls?
Gesture controls reduce physical contact and mechanical wear, lasting longer in rental environments. However, simple rocker buttons are cheaper to replace and more intuitive for all tenant demographics. Choose based on your property class and tenant turnover rate.
Do range hood warranties transfer to new property owners?
Most manufacturer warranties cover the product, not the owner, and transfer with the property. However, commercial use clauses may void coverage in rentals. Check warranty terms and consider extended warranties for premium units in high-end properties.
