bathroom receptacles

[Jesse]

An individual counter space larger wider than 12" in a kitchen requires a receptacle. Does the same apply for a bathroom?

[msteger]

I believe the same rule (regarding minimum receptacle per a certain distance of counter space) doesn't apply for bathrooms, but we'll see if someone else can confirm that. There should be GFCI protected receptacles in bathrooms however within 3' of the sink(s).

[Chris Bernhardt]

Check the city's minimum property/maintenance standards.

For example in the City of Portland, Oregon they are required and are not grandfathered in.

Chris, Oregon

[caryseidner]

In my reports, I call out bathrooms without a grounded receptacle as a safety hazard, and of course recommend that they should be GFCI's.

Curling irons, hairdryers, electric toothbrushes, electric razors and so on are all things that folks like to use in front of a bathroom mirror. If there is no receptacle they're going to run an extension cord, or worse try an tie something into the light or switch.

I believe a GFCI protected receptacle is required in new construction. I don't really feel like hunting for the code right now, but it just doesn't matter. New or old, they should be there.

[Steven Hockstein]

New construction/renovated bathrooms-There should be a GFCI electric outlet for each basin (within three feet of each basin). They are not required to be spaced like in a kitchen.

I believe it is in section 210 of the NEC

Existing construction- I recommend all outlets in bathrooms to be GFCI protected. Many of the local C.O. inspections in NJ are requiring retrofit of GFCI outlets when a house is sold.

[Jim Katen]

Originally posted by Jesse

An individual counter space larger wider than 12" in a kitchen requires a receptacle. Does the same apply for a bathroom?

No. As Steven said, there should be one within three feet of the sink.

- Jim Katen, Oregon

[Jesse]

Thanks, everybody. Have a great weekend.