I’m Moving… Do I Need a Level 2 Chimney Inspection?
Are you in the process of buying or selling a home? If so, you’ll need to schedule a level 2 chimney inspection. A level 2 chimney inspection is more extensive than a level 1 and is typically required when there are changes to the structure of the fireplace (adding a new liner installation, changing fuel types, etc.), after a natural disaster or lightning strike, or – you guessed – when transferring property.
During a level 2 inspection, our sweeps thoroughly examine both the inside and the outside of the chimney. We’ll also use special equipment to get an up-close and clear view of the inside of the chimney flue.
And if you think all of this is covered in a basic home inspection, think again. Home inspectors aren’t actually required to do a comprehensive check of the chimney, which is why scheduling with one of our experts is a must.
Why Is a Level 2 Chimney Inspection Important?
Buying a home is a huge investment – and one you’ll want to protect. Your home’s chimney is one of its most important safety features. It helps ventilate your home of the gases and smoke released from the fireplace or furnace, which is why it’s so important to make sure that it’s in good working order.
Scheduling a level 2 chimney inspection is one way to ensure that the chimney is in good condition and working as it should, so you don’t face any unwelcome (and expensive) issues down the line. After the inspection is complete, you’ll be given a detailed report of the condition of the chimney.
If there are no major issues, you can go ahead and schedule your move. And if there are some damages or issues, your chimney technician can make recommendations for further maintenance. It’s important to get them done before you move out. Or, if you’re moving in, you’ll want to ensure they’re taken care of before making any final signatures.
Home Inspections vs. Chimney Inspections
What can you expect when trust a certified sweep to inspect your chimney? And what will they note that your home inspector could overlook? Let’s go over it.
Professional Inspections
Professional chimney sweeps provide a more comprehensive analysis of the home’s chimney through a level 2 chimney inspection. They’ll get up-close and personal with your system’s interior, ensuring no issues or damages are missed.
This includes:
✓ Video Inspections of the Interior
A video inspection of the interior of your chimney is performed with a special camera that is inserted into the flue. This allows the technician to see the condition of the inside surfaces, as well as identify any cracks, gaps, or blockages.This video footage can be saved and reviewed at a later time if necessary.
Our licensed technicians will inspect for signs of water leaks, water damage, or masonry deterioration on both the inside and outside of the chimney. In addition, we will evaluate the system for proper clearances and take note of any other safety concerns. We take great care to protect your home during our visit and clean up after ourselves when we’re done.
✓ Evaluations of the Current Heating System
Aside from just checking whether the fireplace and chimney are operational or not, we do a more thorough inspection by taking a look at the features of the system. This includes examining the type of fuel being used (wood, coal, oil, gas, etc.), the draft, and any potential issues.
✓ Safety Standards for Equipment
Our sweeps are also required to ensure that the right safety standards are being followed for your heating systems. This includes making sure that the equipment is being properly used and that there are no hazards present.
Home Inspections
While home inspectors are experts at what they do, when it comes to the chimney, they simply do not have the in-depth and extensive knowledge that a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified sweep does. While they may catch obvious signs of damage, there could be any number of hidden hazards that they miss.
Here’s what you can expect:
✗ Overview Visible Areas Only
It’s important to understand that home inspectors only provide a limited scope of coverage of a home’s chimney. In most cases, they will only inspect visible areas of the home. This means that if there are issues with interior parts of the property (such as inside the chimney), they may not be included in the home inspection report.
✗ Structural Adequacy
They’ll report on the general structural adequacy of your chimney and home. This includes checking the windows, roof, doors, and overall condition of the property. The inspector will also look for any obvious signs of damage or deterioration, such as cracks or leaks.
Give Us a Call Today
Ready for the quality care you deserve? Our professional chimney experts will make sure to provide you with a thorough inspection before you move, so you can go into the process with ease and peace of mind.
Let’s get started – call 1-800-822-2131 or reach out online now to book your appointment.