NFPA Level 1 And Level 2 Chimney And Fireplace Inspections
There are several reasons to have your fireplace and chimney inspected, the most common reasons being:
- Buying/Selling Real Estate: When buying a new property, you want to be confident that your purchase is a wise one. Because there are so many other details that go into the purchase of a new home, many buyers forget about the fireplace and chimney. Or, they may assume that a standard home inspection includes a thorough inspection of the chimney and fireplace. Unfortunately, not all inspections are thorough or well-documented, and you may end up paying for problems with the fireplace or chimney on down the line. To protect yourself from costly repairs, rebuilds, or fire damage, it is a good idea to have a Chief Chimney Sweep inspect the chimney system and fireplace of the home you are considering. As the seller, having your property’s chimney and fireplace inspected can protect you from future claims and problems within the system by documenting the condition at the time of the sale. We have extensive experience with both NFPA-instated Level 1 and Level 2 inspections and always provide detailed documentation of our findings. This documentation will include both a written report and video footage.
- Weather Damage: Perhaps your area just experienced a devastating storm and you need to assess the damage done to your chimney system. A Chief Chimney Sweep will provide a comprehensive inspection and can make recommendations for any repairs that may be needed to get your system safe for use again. We also provide detailed documentation of our findings, which can help you get the money for repairs from your insurance company.
- Fire Damage: If your chimney and fireplace were the cause of a house fire, a Chief Chimney Sweep will assess the extent of the damage, detail the required repairs, and help you sort through the options. An inspection can also help us locate the start of the fire. Many insurance companies require these inspections to pinpoint the cause and possible future threats. With a Chief Chimney Services, Inc. report, you can feel safe, even after a fire.
- Preparation for Use: If your fireplace and chimney system has been unused for an extended period of time and you’d like to begin using it, it is imperative that you have it thoroughly inspected before doing so. This will protect you from smoke problems, efficiency problems, and the threat of a fire.
In January of 2000, the National Fire Protection Association designed guidelines for what a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection must include. This was done to provide consistency within inspections, for the protection of homeowners everywhere. If you hire a sweep that is not CSIA-(Chimney Safety Institute of America) certified, your inspection may not be up to par. All CSIA-certified sweeps are tested on the NFPA’s levels of inspection and do not skip any steps or cut any corners.
A Level 1 Inspection
A Level 1 Inspection is required for a chimney system that has been well-maintained; has not had any changes done to it; and will continue to be used in the same manner as usual. A Level 1 inspection includes an examination of all easily-accessible chimney and appliance parts. This type of inspection is basically used to assess basic structural soundness, check for obstructions in the flue, check creosote levels, and evaluate the condition and installation of the overall system.
A Level 2 Inspection
Level 2 inspections are required for any chimney system that has suffered damages or changes, such as:
- Fires
- Earthquakes or other environmental events
- A change in appliance or fuel type
- Relining of the flue
- Change in efficiency or function
Level 2 inspections are also mandatory at the sale of a home, to protect both the buyer and the seller. These inspections are a bit more involved than Level 1 inspections and include an evaluation of all accessible parts outside and inside of the chimney. Level 2 inspections may require access to basements or attics, but do not require demolition of any kind. During a Level 2 inspection, a Chief Chimney Sweep will insert a video camera into the chimney system, allowing an up-close look at areas otherwise hidden from view. With this inspection, you will be provided with a written report and video footage, detailing our findings and recommendations.
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We can diagnose smoke and draft problems in your home. Call on our professional technicians for help with your chimney, fireplace and dryer vent needs.