A Good Place to Live - Housing Quality Standards
2. Kitchen

The Kitchen Must Have:

Ceiling
A ceiling that is in good condition
.

* NOT acceptable are large cracks or holes that allow drafts, severe bulging, large amounts of loose or falling surface materials such as plaster.

Storage
Some space to store food.

Electricity
At least two electric outlets, or one outlet and one permanent overhead light fixture.

* Count as one outlet.
* Do not count table or floor lamps, ceiling lamps plugged into a socket, and extension cords; they are not permanent.
* NOT acceptable are broken or frayed wiring, light fixtures hanging from wires with no firm support (such as a chain), missing cover plates on switches or outlets, badly cracked outlets.

Stove and Oven
A stove (or range) and oven that works. (This can be supplied by the tenant.) In some cases, a microwave oven may be substituted for a stove (or range) and oven.

Floor
A floor that is in good condition.

* Not acceptable are large cracks or holes, missing or warped floor boards or covering that could cause someone to trip.

Preparation Area
Some space to prepare food.

Paint
* A minimal peeling or chipping paint if you have children under the age of six and the house or apartment was built before 1978.

Window
If there is a window, it must be in good condition.

Lock
A lock that works on all windows and doors that can be reached from the outside, a common public hallway, a fire escape, porch or other outside place that can be reached from the ground. A window that cannot be opened is acceptable.

Walls
Walls that are in good condition.

* NOT acceptable are large cracks or holes that allow drafts, severe bulging or leaning, large amounts of loose or falling surface material such as plaster.

Serving Area
Some space to serve food.
--- A separate dining room or dining area in the living room is all right.

Refrigerator
A refrigerator that keeps temperatures low enough so that food does not spoil. (This can be supplied by the tenant.)

Sink
A sink with hot and cold running water.
--- A bathroom will not satisfy this requirement.

You Should Also Think About:
* The size of the kitchen.
* The amount, location, and condition of space to store, prepare, and serve food. Is it adequate for the size of your family?
* The size, condition and location of the refrigerator. Is it adequate for the size of your family?
* The size, condition, and location of the sink.
* Other appliances you would like provided.
* Extra outlets.

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