Three Levels of Chimney Inspections
You may feel that a chimney inspection isn’t a high priority for your home and think that you’ll only deal with it if something goes wrong.
The problem with dealing with chimney problems only when they occur is that, unlike a leaky roof or plumbing problem, when an issue arises with your chimney, it has the potential to be life-threatening.
A faulty component inside your chimney can cause issues with airflow, and toxic gases such as carbon monoxide can enter your home. If there is an issue with your chimney’s liner, there is a chance that a fire could occur in your attic or on the roof.
Regarding inspections, three levels exist as stipulated by the National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.). The chimney inspections will catch any potentially hazardous issues before they occur. Let’s take a closer look.
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
When you have your annual chimney sweep, the technician is at the same time looking for any damage or defects with your chimney.
Even though a level one inspection usually only involves a tape measure and a flashlight, it still requires the base of knowledge to understand what is a problem and what isn’t.
A level- 1 inspection is done on easily accessible and not concealed areas. If the chimney inspector sees anything that requires a more in-depth inspection, they will recommend a level- 2 inspection.
Level 2 Chimney Inspection
Level-2 inspections aren’t only performed when an inspector suspects something in a level- 1 inspection; they are also done when a homeowner has made any changes to their heating unit, such as adding an appliance to the fireplace, installing a new lining, or changing the type of fuel it uses. A level-2 inspection is also recommended when their chimney is not working well.
Once a level- 2 inspections of your chimney and heating unit is done, you will receive a report that details the inspector’s findings and any recommendations for repairs.
Level 3 Chimney Inspection
A level- 3 chimney inspection is the most thorough inspection because it includes all areas of your chimney, seen and unseen. Sections of the fireplace and components may need to be removed for a comprehensive inspection.
Level- 3 inspections are rare, but the good news is that catching a problem early through the inspection will eliminate future damage that could cost thousands of dollars to repair.
Certified Chimney Inspections
Because our chimney sweeps are F.I.R.E. certified, the only certification for inspections in the hearth industry, they will recognize issues that you wouldn’t. You may think a home inspector could check out your chimney while investigating your roof, but they don’t have the experience, training, or certifications.
Trust Oliver Twist Chimney and Fireplace to Inspect Your Chimney
In the long run, let us inspect your fireplace can save you money and make your home safer. Don’t wait for a problem to have your chimney looked at by us. Call today or complete our easy contact form. One of our chimney experts will be happy to discuss having your chimney inspected. We perform chimney inspections for real estate and homeowners in Huntington Beach CA, Long Beach CA, Torrance CA, Anaheim CA, Santa Ana CA, Inglewood, CA; Manhattan Beach CA, Redondo Beach CA, Hermosa Beach CA, and numerous other SoCal communities.