![Chimney Inspection](https://vertical-chimney-care.lndo.site/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/bigstock-Roofer-Construction-Worker-Rep-368303335.jpg)
Level 1 Inspections & Chimney Sweep
The most common fireplace inspection is a Level 1. When you think you need your chimney cleaned and examined because it’s been a minute since the last time a professional has taken a good look, a Level 1 inspection is the minimum requirement.Here’s when to schedule a Level 1 chimney inspection:
- Nothing’s changed: your systems, both the appliance and venting systems, have all stayed the same. It’s the same systems you’ve used in the past and there have been no updates.
- Continued use: if you’re like most homeowners, the fireplace was why you were attracted to your house. You probably use it. Even if you don’t use it a lot, you still need to get it cleaned and checked out, and that’s what a Level 1 does.
How it works:
![Chimney Inspection 1](https://vertical-chimney-care.lndo.site/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/bigstock-Professional-Workman-Standing-315470539.jpg)
Level 2 Inspections
There are instances when you’ll need a Level 2 inspection for your chimney. A few are:- Something has changed: did you make any changes or updates to your venting system? This includes a change in the fuel you use, the flue’s liner—material or shape—or if you’ve replaced an appliance that has a different input rating or efficiency level. If so, you’ll need a Level 2 inspection.
- You’re required by purchase or sale of a property: a Level 2 inspection is required upon “the sale or transfer of a property,” according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). As a seller, this protects you from a buyer saying that the chimney is damaged when an inspection could say otherwise, while also getting your home ready to sell and meet all requirements. As a buyer, this protects you from costly repairs and understanding the integrity of the home in an inspection.
- The chimney has suffered damage: the most important need for a Level 2 is when the chimney has suffered damage. Damage could be caused by a chimney fire, natural disaster, or a general building fire.
How it works:
It’s easier to understand what a Level 2 inspection involves by going through what won’t happen:- Nothing will be demolished in order to conduct a Level 2 or gain access to the chimney, any doors, coverings, or panels.
- No permanently attached portions of the chimney or your home’s building structure or its finish will be removed or demolished either.
- No specialty tools, other than the video scanning equipment, are required to perform a Level 2 inspection. If specialty tools are required to say, access hidden, concealed, or hard-to-reach areas of the chimney or flue, then it becomes a Level 3 inspection.