What is the recommended action if a dishwasher fails to drain properly?

If a dishwasher fails to drain properly, reporting it as deficient is the recommended action. This step is crucial because it informs the homeowner of a potentially significant issue that could lead to water damage, mold growth, or further appliance malfunction. A home inspector's primary role is to identify and report on conditions that might not be immediately fixable or visible to the homeowner, especially in a context of safety and functionality.

While cleaning the filter, servicing the motor, or addressing the water inlet could be beneficial actions to rectify the drainage issue, these are often beyond the scope of a home inspector's duties. Inspectors typically do not perform repairs or maintenance; they assess and report on the state of the appliances in a home. Thus, documenting the problem is the most appropriate and effective course of action that aids in transparency and future troubleshooting for the homeowner or potential buyers.