Chimney Inspections
For both wood and gas fireplaces, it is critical that you get annual inspections. The National Fire Protection Agency highly advises that you get your gas or wood fireplace system checked at least once a year to assure that everything is running to code. With our experience and dedication to safety, Legends Fireplaces goes beyond minimum state requirements to meet or exceed both NFPA and IRC codes. Contact us to schedule your next inspection.
Selling a Home with a Fireplace?
Whenever you transfer the ownership of a house with a fireplace, it is required by the NFPA to have a Level II inspection and report the findings to the buyer. Meanwhile, if you are making changes to your fireplace system, such as changing the fuel type, a more thorough inspection will be required. Legends Fireplaces is here to help make the inspection process easier for our real estate clients. All our inspections are in-depth and are followed by a clear and detailed report.
Three Levels of Inspection
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)'s 211 (Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances) is the standard upon which CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps base their services. This new standard now classifies chimney and venting system inspections into three levels: Level I, Level II, or Level III. Each level of inspection has a specific scope of work and specific criteria.
Level I Inspection
This inspection is recommended when the chimney and venting system is easily accessible and when the homeowner is planning to maintain its current use. In general, this is the level of inspection performed in most homes. In a Level I inspection a certified chimney sweep verifies that the chimney structure is sound and that the chimney is free of obstructions and combustible deposits, such as creosote.
Level II Inspection
The addition of a new home heating appliance or a change in the type of fuel a homeowner is burning requires a Level II inspection. This inspection level is also required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operating malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. The scope of a Level II inspection includes that of the Level I inspection plus the inspection of accessible portions of the attics, crawl spaces, and basements. It may also include a performance test such as a smoke test or a pressure test and possibly an interior chimney video inspection if recommended by the certified chimney sweep.
Level III Inspection
When a Level I or Level II inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without access to concealed areas, a Level III inspection is recommended. This type of inspection confirms the proper construction and condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Level III inspections are generally necessary when investigating an incident that has caused damage to a chimney or building, or where a hazard is detected and suspected. Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fire Protection Association recommend yearly chimney inspections to help prevent fire and carbon monoxide poisonings.
