CHIMNEY INSPECTIONS
Not all chimney inspections are the same. Some techs may shine a light up in your fireplace and call it a day. But here at Chimney Saviors Inc., we know that no chimneys are the same and that different chimneys and situations may require different types of care.
That’s why our team is trained to provide three different levels of inspections (per the NFPA 211 Standard). We can recommend the proper inspection for your chimney and your needs. Since we are licensed contractors with over 26 years of experience, we will always provide you with an accurate repair estimate. We can also complete your needed chimney fire safety and repair work.
Here’s a little bit about each type of chimney inspection.
Level 1
• When do you need a level 1 chimney inspection? If your appliance or 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 same appliance.
• What’s it entails? In a level 1 inspection, we will examine the readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, plus accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. Your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue, as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. The technician will also verify that the chimney is free of obstructions and combustible deposits.
Level 2
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When do you need a level 2 chimney inspection? A level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type (for example, you’re switching from woodburning to gas), changes to the shape or material of 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, earthquakes, as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted.
What’s it entails? A level 2 inspection shall include all things covered in a level 1 inspection but should also include a visual inspection (through video scan) to examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. A level 2 inspection will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations, so it should also include an inspection of the accessible** portions of the chimney exterior and interior, including attics, crawl spaces, and basements. There are no specialty tools (i.e., demolition equipment) required to open doors, panels, or coverings when performing a level 2 inspection. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required during a level 2 inspection.
Level 3
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When do you need a level 3 chimney inspection? When a level 1 or level 2 inspection suggests a hidden and serious 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.
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What’s it like? A level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and the condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and flue. It will include all the areas and items checked in a level 1 and 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. 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.