What to do to have a compliant kitchen if it is small

The eat-in kitchen cannot be smaller than 9 square meters. The distance between outlets and switches and the stove must be respected.

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La standard kitchenEven when very small, a stove is essential for safety, hygiene, and functionality, as well as to preserve the home's value. The key factors are space (minimum square footage), proper ventilation, and the distance between the stove and electrical outlets. 

Space

There is no national law that defines a minimum square footage for a kitchen that meets standards. However, municipal regulations apply, and they can vary greatly: in Milan and Palermo, for example, a kitchen cannot be smaller than 5 square meters; in Rome, the cubic capacity cannot be less than 15 cubic meters. If it's a eat-in kitchen (this is defined as a kitchen that can also accommodate a dining table), the space cannot be less than 9 square meters. As for height, the kitchen, except in some mountainous areas, cannot be less than 2,7 meters.

Ventilation

If you have a gas stove, it's essential to ensure good natural ventilation in the kitchen, appropriate for the size of the room. With an induction hob, however, a hood with an associated exhaust duct is not required: this is because such an appliance doesn't produce combustion fumes or rising vapors, but only moist steam. 

Lighting

In this case too, municipal regulations are important, which require adequate air exchange and a correct lighting Direct natural light. The average daylight factor cannot be less than 2 percent. And it is essential that the openable window area be no less than 1/8 of the room's floor area. 

Membranes

The essential characteristics must be: waterproof, washable, non-porous, resistant to both wear and tear and to detergents and aggressive substances.

Distance between sockets and switches

To avoid accidents and risks, and ensure good safety, sockets and switches must be at least 60 centimeters away from water and fire (i.e., faucets and stovetops). Hob burners cannot be near any meters (whether electric or gas), and electrical outlets must be at least 15,5 centimeters from the floor. Other minimum distances to consider: at least 60 centimeters between the hob and the sink, 40 centimeters between the sink and the refrigerator or cabinets, and 70 centimeters of free space in front of furniture. 

What happens if the kitchen is not up to standard?

A non-compliant kitchen can cause various safety, hygiene and even economic problems (loss of value of the house). 
 
  • Fires and explosions: Substandard electrical or gas systems can cause short circuits or gas leaks. Plugging sockets too close to cooktops or extension cords in damp areas increases the risk.
  • Electric shock: Sockets near the sink without differential protection (circuit breaker) can cause electrocution.
  • Accidents and injuries: Narrow spaces, unsafe worktops, and unstable cabinets can cause falls or cuts.
  • Hard-to-clean surfaces favor mold, bacteria and food contamination.
  • Sink without hot/cold water or separate spaces for raw and cooked foods increases the risk of foodborne illnesses.
  • Even in a private home, in case of serious accidents, insurance may not cover damages if the kitchen is not up to standard.
  • A property with a non-compliant kitchen can have difficulties in buying and selling or additional costs to regularize it.

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