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Kitchen Complications: Peninsula and island countertop compliance challenges

By Kyle Krueger | Jan 15, 2025
Kitchen Complications: Peninsula and island countertop compliance challenges / pop-up receptacle

Installation of Kitchen countertop electrical receptacles has always challenged residential construction, and it’s not getting easier. It’s no surprise that once again there is a significant change in the 2023 National Electrical Code.

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Installation of kitchen countertop electrical receptacles has always challenged residential construction, and it’s not getting easier. It’s no surprise that once again there is a significant change in the 2023 National Electrical Code.

The Code change: A brief overview

One of the most notable revisions is Section 210.52(C), which outlines kitchen countertop receptacle outlet requirements. The new language no longer requires a receptacle to be installed to serve a kitchen island or peninsular countertop space regardless of size. This revised requirement permits receptacle installations; however, they must be installed above the countertop surface. The new rule explicitly prohibits receptacles intended to serve a peninsula or island from being installed below it.

Like every change, the technical committee (CMP-2) responsible for the rule must weigh the safety of people and property with the impact of implementing a change.

Safety concerns: Safety is the primary motivation for the change. Receptacles installed below countertops can be more difficult to access and often require reaching over appliances or other objects. This increases the likelihood of accidents, such as knocking over appliances or exposing cords to damage. During the Public Comment Stage of the 2023 NEC, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) presented data sets compiled by CPSC epidemiologists that show there were 45 anecdotal reports of burns/other injuries between January 1991 through 2020 and an estimated 9,700 burns/other injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments. 

Many of these incidents involved second- and third-­degree burn injuries; 10 resulted in death. The data show the injuries were caused by tipping and spilling the contents of countertop cooking appliances. The investigations revealed that children may pull power cords, or the cords may get inadvertently snagged when someone walks by.

Cord management and tripping ­hazards: Receptacles below countertops often result in cords trailing across the sides of islands or peninsulas, increasing the risk of entanglement, cord damage, or trips and falls. The updated Code seeks to eliminate this risk with above-counter installation.

Case study: A builder’s costly mistake

To illustrate the real-world impact, consider the following case study.

Background: A custom home builder in a high-end residential development installed electrical receptacles beneath the countertop in the kitchen’s large island as part of the original design. The homeowners had specifically requested this to maintain the island’s clean aesthetic, without visible outlets cluttering the surface. The receptacles were placed just below the countertop, which complied with the previous editions of the NEC.

In 2023, after the home was completed but before final inspection, the local electrical inspector informed the builder that the receptacle placement violated the 2023 NEC; specifically, receptacles serving the island cannot be installed below the surface.

Challenges faced

Design dilemma: The homeowners were unhappy with the prospect of visible receptacles. They had been unaware of the pending Code change and felt that altering the island’s design postconstruction would mar its visual appeal. Additionally, the only option to install a receptacle in the island or the peninsula would be a “popup style.”

Costly modifications: To bring the home into compliance, the builder had to relocate the receptacles above the countertop. This involved significant rework, including replacing the custom island cabinets, rewiring and applying new finishes. The total cost of the modifications, including labor and materials, ran into the tens of thousands of dollars.

Delays: This Code violation also delayed the issuance of final occupancy for several homes in the development. The homeowners, who were unable to move into their new home as scheduled, were frustrated. The builder had to compensate them for the additional inconvenience.

Best practices for compliance

Here are some suggested best practices to aid in compliance.

Stay informed: As the NEC updates every three years, it’s crucial for electricians, builders and designers to stay current with the latest requirements. Attending continuing education courses, joining professional organizations and consulting with local Code-enforcement officials can help.

Educate customers: When designing a kitchen layout, make it a priority to educate clients about the latest Code requirements. While aesthetics are important, safety should take priority. This will include explaining why certain design choices may not be possible and offering alternative solutions that balance aesthetics with safety and compliance.

Plan for Code changes: Builders and electricians should anticipate potential Code changes when designing long-term projects. Check with the local AHJ to determine when new versions will be adopted. In general, AHJs will set a deadline for projects so it is clear when the newly adopted requirements will apply.

Staying informed, planning and prioritizing compliance will ensure smooth project execution and satisfied customers.

About The Author

Kyle Krueger headshot

Kyle Krueger

Executive Director of Codes and Standards

KRUEGER is NECA’s executive director of codes and standards. He has worked in the electrical industry for over 25 years as an inside wireman, authority having jurisdiction and educator. Kyle currently represents NECA on the NEC Correlating Committee, Code-Making Panel 3, NFPA 72 Correlating Committee, NFPA’s Electrical Section Executive Board and the UL Electrical Council. Reach him at kkrueger@ necanet.org.

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