Is a Chimney Inspection Required during a Home Inspection?
Anytime a home with a chimney venting system is bought or sold, a chimney inspection is a must. Many people make the mistake of assuming that the chimney is inspected during the required comprehensive home inspection. In reality, home inspectors don’t include the all-important professional chimney check-up.
Why is a Chimney Inspection Important in a Home Sale or Purchase?
If a professional chimney technician does not conduct a chimney inspection during the time a home is being considered by a buyer, either or both parties could come to regret it. For a seller, it’s good to keep in mind that fireplaces are highly in demand. Buyers who care about having a fireplace likely expect that the chimney has recently been inspected. If it’s not inspected upfront, negotiations could be negatively impacted. In addition, the seller may face future claims, if something goes wrong. Whether you are a home buyer or seller, it is in your best interest to have a well-documented professional inspection showing that the fireplace and chimney are both in a good state of repair.
What Does a Chimney Inspection Involve?
There are three levels of chimney inspection, as defined by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), a leading fire safety organization. CSIA recommends that a Level 2 chimney inspection be conducted whenever property is being transferred. Learn about all three levels of chimney inspections below.
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
All that is needed for a chimney that has been under continued service and is under the same extent of continued use and conditions is a Level 1 chimney inspection. According to the CSIA, during a Level 1 inspection, a chimney professional examines the portions of the chimney that are readily accessible on the interior and exterior. The meaning of “readily accessible” is that parts that are exposed or capable of being exposed for repair, maintenance, or inspection without the need to use a tool to open or remove coverings, panels, or doors.
The Level 1 check includes parts of the appliance and chimney connection. The basic chimney structure soundness and flue are evaluated, along with basic appliance connections and installation. The chimney professional also verifies that the chimney is free from deposits of creosote and from obstruction.
Level 2 Inspection
Everything included in Level 1 inspections is also included in Level 2, plus more. A Level 2 inspection is required not only upon transfer of property but also when changes are made to the system. For instance, if the fuel type has been changed or the flue has been replaced, a Level 2 inspection is needed.
Video scanning or other means of examining the internal joints and surfaces of the flue liners in the chimney is also part of a Level 2 inspection.
Level 3 Inspection
If a hidden hazard has been revealed by a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection, then a Level 3 chimney inspection is needed. The Level 3 chimney inspection includes removal of chimney components, such as the chimney crown, if a point of access is needed to get to the area requiring closer examination.
Who to Call for a Chimney Inspection
Chimney Saver Solutions is the most highly respected full service chimney company in the Richmond area. All of the chimney technicians are highly trained and certified. They are all qualified to conduct a Level 2 inspection for the purpose of exchanging property. Contact Chimney Saver Solutions today at 804-440-5000 for a Level 1, 2, or 3 chimney inspection and for all of your chimney needs.
