Until recently, the scope of work performed in the inspection or evaluation of a fireplace, stove or other venting system was generally up to the discretion of the chimney service technician. Professional service technicians now have an industry standard that removes much of that "discretion." The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has addressed the minimum chimney inspection standards in a publication (NFPA 211) concerning home heating appliances.

Inspections are now classified as Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3. Each level of inspection covers specific items depending on the individual appliance and venting system.

Below is an explanation of the three levels of inspections and what services we will provide for you at each level.

Level 1 Inspections

If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement.

A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service under the same conditions and with the continued use of the sam appliance.

In a Level 1 inspection, we will examine the readilyl accessible portions of the chmney exterior, interior and accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. We will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. We will also verify the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

Level 2 Inspections

A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted. A Level 2 inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 inspection.

A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations. There are no specialty tool (i.e. demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels or coverings in performing a Level 2 inspection. A Level 2 inspection shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces and joints or all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.

Level 3 Inspections

When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure will be required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection.

A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of components (i.e. chimney crown, interior chimney wall) shall be required only when necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. When serious hazards are suspected, a Level 3 inspection may well be required to determine the condition of the chimney system.

The Importance Of Annual Inspections

Your chimney systems are an important part of your home heating system. The National Fire Protection Association recommends and annual evaluation of all chimneys, fireplaces and vents. For safe and efficient operation, your chneys should be checked annually by a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep and cleaned as needed. Each year unsafe chimneys cause significant numbers of injuries and deaths, and account for more than $200 million in property losses. Make chimney examinations a regular part of your home maintenance schedule. We are proud to say that we are CSIA Cetified, and we want to help you. Don't become a statistic!