Chimney Inspections

Chimney inspections are important for several reasons:

Fire Safety: Regular inspections help identify potential fire hazards, such as creosote buildup or blockages that can hinder proper ventilation. A clean chimney is less likely to catch fire.
Compliance: Inspections ensure that your chimney and fireplace comply with fire safety codes and regulations.
Hidden Damage: Inspections reveal hidden issues that may lead to costly problems, carbon monoxide poisoning, or increased fire risk.
Types of Inspections:
- Level 1: Basic integrity check for those using their fireplace as usual.
- Level 2: Needed for changes (e.g., fuel type, shape) or before selling a property.
- Level 3: Includes tear-down for severe damage assessment.

Remember to schedule an annual chimney inspection to keep your home safe and cozy!

A Basic, Regular Safety Inspection

What: In a Level 1 Inspection a certified chimney sweep inspects readily accessible areas of the chimney, structure, and flue as well as appliances attached to the chimney (stove, furnace, etc.). The chimney sweep is checking for obstructions or combustibles that may pose a hazard in continued use.

When: A Level 1 Inspection is a basic inspection which is recommended to be performed annually by NFPA. A Level 1 Inspection usually occurs during routine cleanings of a chimney.

Schedule an Inspection

Other tools may be needed for chimney inspection

A serious look into a critical portion of a chimney.

What: In a Level 3 Inspection a Certified Chimney Sweep accesses all external and internal portions of the chimney structure, including concealed areas of the building or chimney: this may include removal of components of the building or chimney where necessary, but only as necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. A Level 3 Inspection looks into specific areas of a chimney where construction of concealed portions of the chimney or enclosed flues is deemed critical to its renewed or continued use.

When: A level 3 Inspection is necessary for the investigation of an incident that has caused damage to the chimney or building (a fire, a tree falling on or near it, etc.). A Level 3 inspection may be recommended to look into areas unreachable in a Level 1 or 2 inspection that have caused concern for the integrity of a concealed portion of the chimney.

Included: A Level 3 Inspection is tailored to the circumstances. It may include partial drywall or other obstruction removal temporarily in order to access concealed areas of the chimney. Drilling into the chimney to discover its contents and condition may also be necessary.

Handyman Tools may be needed for chimney inspection

A Closer look into the Condition and Suitability of a chimney.

What: In a Level 2 Inspection a Certified Chimney Sweep examines all accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, including areas within accessible attics, crawl spaces, and basements, and accessible portions of the appliance and chimney connection. This inspection checks for:

1) Proper construction and condition of accessible portions of the chimney structure and the enclosed flues.

2) Proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.

3)Size and Suitability of flues for connected appliances.

When: A Level 2 Inspection should occur:

- Upon addition or removal of one or more connected appliances or replacement of an appliance with one of dissimilar type, input rating, or efficiency.

- Prior to relining or replacement of flue lining.

- Upon sale or transfer of the property.

- After an operating malfunction or external event likely to have caused damage to the chimney.

Included: A Level 2 Inspection includes video scanning of the chimney.

Get your Inspection scheduled!