What should I look for in a chimney inspection?

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 the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits. A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system.

Is a chimney inspection necessary?

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends that a chimney should be inspected before buying a home and then at least every 12 months. Even if you use you rarely use your fireplace or stove, it is still recommended that you have your chimney inspected annually.

How often should your chimney be inspected?

once a year
The simple answer is: The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.

What is the difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 chimney inspection?

During a level 1 inspection the inspector will examine the chimney and flue for blockages and overall condition. The level 2 chimney inspection includes the areas covered in a level 1 inspection in addition to a more thorough assessment of the accessible areas of the chimney structure.

What happens during chimney inspection?

When you get a chimney inspection done, the inspector will take a look at your chimney for buildup, obstruction, damage or any structural issues. They’ll likely sweep your chimney as part of the inspection to make sure they’re getting an accurate look at your system.

How much is a chimney inspection?

A chimney inspection typically costs $300 to $600, or $450 on average. Prices start at $100 for a basic visual inspection of an undamaged chimney with one flue. Costs can reach $5,000 if the chimney has structural damage that’s impossible to see without tearing down walls.

How do you know if your chimney needs to be cleaned?

Here are our top 9 Signs that Your Chimney Needs to Be Cleaned:

1. Oily Spots on the Walls of Your Fireplace.
2. Poorly Burning Fires.
3. Odors Coming from the Fireplace.
4. Animals are Inside Your Chimney.
5. Smoke Doesn’t Rise Up the Chimney.
6. Fires are Difficult to Get Started.
7. Chimney Soot is Falling from the Chimney.

How many levels of inspection does the NFPA 211 detail?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211 identifies three levels of inspections for chimneys, fireplaces, vents and solid fuel-burning appliances.

When should you inspect a chimney?

You’ll get this sort of inspection done when any changes are made to your chimney, such as a change in fuel type or getting a new liner, or after any potentially damaging events like a fire or an earthquake. This level of inspection is required when you sell your home, according to the CSIA.

How often should your chimney be cleaned?

How often should I have my chimney swept? This a tougher question than it sounds. The simple answer is: The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.

Can I clean my chimney myself?

In many cases, you can clean the chimney yourself and save a few hundred dollars. Removing ordinary chimney soot is pretty simple. But if you have heavy creosote buildup, you’ll have to call in a pro. Otherwise, hire a certified chimney sweep.

How to inspect a chimney?

Use a mirror or lay down newspaper to look up the chimney. Use a powerful flashlight to light your view. When inspecting, look for blockages, cracks, damage and creosote build-up. Inspect the mortar joints in brick or stone chimneys.

What is a Certified Chimney Sweep?

What a certified chimney sweep is qualified to do is not limited to working on fireplace and stove chimneys. Chimney service contractors also work on gas, oil and coal heating systems that are attached to chimneys. The Chimney Safety Institute of America also certifies technicians who clean, repair and maintain the exhaust ducts on clothes dryers.

What is an inspection checklist?

An inspection checklist, when used properly, is an assurance that a particular piece of equipment has been inspected. As each item on the checklist is ticked off, the person doing the inspection is verifying that each component of the equipment is in correct working order.