CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS
What is a Chimney Inspection?
A chimney inspection is broken up into different levels based on the depth of the inspection performed. We conduct a Level 1 chimney inspection with every general home inspection. A level 1 is a visual non-invasive review of the readily accessible portions of the chimney. A Level 2 chimney inspection covers everything in the level 1 as well as checks for compliance with National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A) 211 (Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-burning Appliances) and utilizes specialized camera to view the flue to check for internal defects, damages, and build-ups of debris or creosote.
When should a Level 2 inspection be done?
The NFPA 211 states a level 2 inspection is to be conducted on all chimneys at the following times:
- Before the transfer of ownership
- Before changing the type or size of an attached appliance
- After a malfunction in an attached appliance
- After any event that is suspected to have caused damage to the chimney
How long does a level 2 chimney inspection take?
You should plan 1.5-2 hours per chimney for a Level 2 inspection that is being inspected to allow for proper set-up, inspection, and clean-up. We encourage this inspection to be scheduled at the same time as your general inspection and we will have a second inspector there to perform the chimney inspection to ensure you have all the necessary information about the property in a timely manner.
Basics Parts of a Chimney
A chimney is a system of many parts that may change depending on the design and type of materials used, but there are some key parts that should be in every chimney.
- Chimney – A structure containing one or more vertical or nearly vertical passageways for conveying flue gases to the outside atmosphere. It is commonly made from brick, cement block, or stainless steel.
- Flue – The general term for a passage through which gases are conveyed from the combustion chamber to the outside air. The chimney flue is commonly constructed from clay tile joined at the seams, or stainless steel.
- Chimney Cap – A Protective covering or housing for the top of the chimney intended to prevent the entry of rain, snow, animals, or birds, and to prevent downdrafts.
- Cleanout Opening – An opening or hole in a chimney, usually located near its base, designed to allow access to the flue for the purposes of removing ash, creosote, soot, and other extraneous matter that becomes trapped.