Orange County
(714) 843-9944

Long Beach
(562) 595-5122

Los Angeles
(310) 377-8163

Orange County
(714) 843-9944

Long Beach
(562) 595-5122

Los Angeles
(310) 377-8163

Founder: Steve Lovsteen

Level Two Chimney Inspection for Real Estate

Suppose you are preparing to sell your house or buy a new one; you need to have a level two chimney inspection for real estate. A level two inspection protects both the seller and buyer, but we will get to that later. In order to understand its benefits, you need to know what a level two chimney inspection comprises.

real estate chimney inspectionWhat is a Level Two Chimney Inspection?

There are three levels of a Chimney inspection as prescribed by the National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.). A level two inspection is usually only undertaken when a certified chimney inspector finds an issue in a level one chimney inspection, but it is also done by request for those buying or selling a house.

A thorough look at all parts of the chimney and heat source using a special video camera is made to ensure that the chimney’s components are working, not rusted, and in need of replacement. The inspection also involves looking at the state of the chimney liner to determine if it needs replacement.

When a level two chimney inspection has been completed, the inspector will provide a  report documenting any discoveries and making suggestions for repairs. Now you can see why a level two inspection could benefit both home buyer and seller.

Level Two Chimney Inspection When Selling Your Home

It makes sense for a homeowner selling their house to ensure the chimney is in good shape without any issues. Why? Things like a faulty chimney liner can cause a fire because there is no heat shield to protect your attic, roof, or walls near the fireplace from scorching temperatures. If you sell a house and there is a fire, you can be held responsible because it is your duty as the seller to ensure that the chimney is free of any issues.

Cracked Chimney Crown Repairs in Rancho Palo Verdes CA, Rolling Hills CA, and Torrance CA

Leaky Chimney

Another benefit for a home seller is that any leaks in the chimney can be found. Nothing wreaks more havoc on a chimney than water.

If the chimney’s crown is cracked or if it’s missing a chimney cover, then you may find issues like mold inside the fireplace or spalling where bricks chip and crumble from water damage, making them unstable and could cause a chimney to collapse.

Imagine if a chimney crumbles after you have sold the house,  it’s likely that the buyer would take you to court to recoup the cost of having a new chimney built. Let’s look at the buyer side of a level two inspection for real estate.

It’s Vital for a Home Buyer to Have a Chimney Inspection

Is there a separation between the flashing and the chimney? Are the bricks in the chimney visibly crumbling? Is there a blockage in the chimney’s flue that would force toxic fumes like carbon monoxide back inside the house? Is a thick coating of soot and highly flammable creosote in the flue from the chimney not being cleaned?

Chimney Inspection for Real Estate

Professional Real Estate Chimney Inspection in Anaheim CA, Laguna Beach CA and Dana Point CA

Buying a house is a serious investment, and it behooves home buyers to check things like the house’s wiring, roof, and foundation.

It is no less important if you are purchasing a home to have the chimney inspected. It really is a buyer beware when you purchase a new home; that’s why a level two chimney inspection makes sense.

Oliver Twist Knows All About Real Estate Chimney Inspections

Regardless if you are selling your home or buying one, we can perform a level two inspection for real estate. Call us today or fill out our contact form on this website. We will be in touch with you about undertaking a level two inspection and what is involved. Don’t make the mistake of selling or buying a home without having the chimney inspected; it can prevent disasters and save you money down the road. Oliver Twist performs chimney inspections in Huntington Beach CA, Long Beach CA, Torrance CA, Anaheim CA, Santa Ana CA, Rancho Palo Verdes CA, Rolling Hills CA, Carson CA, Downey CA, and various other SoCal communities.