What type of chimney inspection do I need to sell my home?
This level of inspection is required when you sell your home, according to CSIA. Level Three: This is a thorough inspection of all parts of your chimney, including any covered or hidden portions that can only be reached using special tools. It may require demolition and rebuilding parts of the chimney, depending on what needs to be done.
Do I 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 like?
What happens during a chimney sweep inspection?
Level Two: This level of inspection will likely involve your chimney sweep using equipment such as a camera to fully inspect the inside of your chimney. They will inspect all parts of your chimney that are accessible without the use of special tools, and may inspect your attic, crawl space or basement.
How often should you schedule a chimney inspection?
“Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.” But when else might you need to schedule a chimney inspection? You’re making a change to your system – like installing a new appliance, replacing your flue liner, or changing fuel types or appliance types.
Why is it important for buyers to ask when a chimney or fireplace was last inspected?
Doing so helps maintain the integrity of your fireplaces burning system, as well as the resale value of your home. If your home inspector misses a significant issue (because it's not obvious damage) or recommends the wrong repair, the chimney can become a serious safety hazard.
What should I look for when checking a chimney?
1:402:52How to Inspect a Wood Burning Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLook for any black residue between chimney bricks this means creosote is seeping through look to seeMoreLook for any black residue between chimney bricks this means creosote is seeping through look to see if your chimney has a sway or bow to it it could be unstable.
How do I know if my chimney is in good condition?
How to Make Sure Your Fireplace & Chimney Are SafeThere's no bird nest or debris buildup on the cap.There are no tree limbs above or near the chimney.The mortar and bricks on the chimney aren't crumbling or missing.The chimney rises at least 2 feet above where it exits the roof.More items...
Do you need to have your chimney cleaned if you have gas logs?
While gas fireplaces don't produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. Both propane and natural gas are clean burning gas fuels, so they don't produce the same byproducts as wood, but they can still produce buildup that needs to be cleaned away.
How likely is a chimney fire?
There are over 25,000 reported chimney fires a year in the U.S. While some sound like a low-flying jet and include flames shooting out the top of the chimney, others are slow-burning and go undetected until a chimney inspection uncovers damage. Chimney fires are dangerous, but they are preventable.
How do you test a chimney for creosote?
Use your fireplace poker. Scratch the smoke chamber above your damper to see if there is any creosote. Even if the layer of tar seems very thin, it's time to call a chimney sweep ASAP. If you have more than 1/8 of an inch of buildup, do not use the chimney until it is clean.
How long should a chimney last?
50 to 100 yearsIf a chimney has been correctly built and cared for, it can be expected to last for 50 to 100 years! But here's the thing, many chimneys have not been properly cared for throughout their lifetime, however. It is therefore essential to have your chimney inspected before you move into a new home and annually afterwards.
How can I tell if my chimney needs cleaning?
Here are our top 9 Signs that Your Chimney Needs to Be Cleaned:Oily Spots on the Walls of Your Fireplace.Poorly Burning Fires.Odors Coming from the Fireplace.Animals are Inside Your Chimney.Smoke Doesn't Rise Up the Chimney.Fires are Difficult to Get Started.Chimney Soot is Falling from the Chimney.More items...
What happens if you don't sweep your chimney?
If you don't clean your chimney regularly, soot will accumulate around the flue causing an inability to draw smoke upwards. The smoke will then be directed to your room leaving black soot on the walls, furniture, and carpeting. It causes permanent staining around the chimney in some cases.
How often do gas chimneys need to be cleaned?
Since gas fireplaces don't produce smoke, soot, or ashes, they do not need to be cleaned as often as wood-burning fireplaces, but they still require maintenance. As a rule of thumb, gas fireplace chimneys should be cleaned once a year.How Often Should Gas Fireplace Chimneys Be Cleaned? | Hunkerhttps://www.hunker.com › how-often-should-gas-fireplac...https://www.hunker.com › how-often-should-gas-fireplac...Search for: How often do gas chimneys need to be cleaned?
Can gas logs cause a chimney fire?
It is fueled by gas and is often mistaken for wood because the fire looks very much like a wood-burning fire and lets out about the same amount of heat. Vented gas logs generate some soot and carbon just like wood-burning fires and can leave deposits in the chimney the same way.Does My Gas Fireplace Need to Be Cleaned?https://www.valleychimney.com › blog › gas-fireplace-ne...https://www.valleychimney.com › blog › gas-fireplace-ne...Search for: Can gas logs cause a chimney fire?
Do I need to sweep my chimney for a gas fire?
It is essential to have your gas-fire chimney swept and inspected once per year, typically in spring or summer. This cleaning and inspection will remove buildup and blockages, as well as ensure your chimney and fireplace are functioning as intended.Does a Gas Fire Chimney Need Sweeping?https://peppershomeandgarden.com › gas-fire-chimney-s...https://peppershomeandgarden.com › gas-fire-chimney-s...Search for: Do I need to sweep my chimney for a gas fire?
How do you inspect a chimney liner?
0:161:39Home Inspection - Chimneys - Part 2 of 2 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSee if there's any broken or disintegrating fabric and that the mortar joints are tight with allMoreSee if there's any broken or disintegrating fabric and that the mortar joints are tight with all mortar in place. Look at the damper in the firebox. Check that it operates properly.
How do I check my chimney liner?
How can I tell if my chimney has a liner? You can have it inspected by a chimney professional; or, if you're able, you can go up on the roof and check it out yourself. If you look down into your chimney and see only bricks and no clay tile, it is not lined.
How do you check a chimney is safe UK?
The way to check whether a flue still has sufficient integrity is to have the chimney swept and then have your professional chimney sweep conduct a Chimney Integrity Pressure Test. This means putting the chimney under a certain amount of pressure and checking the leakage rate.
The importance of a chimney inspection
It is vital to have your chimney inspected on an annual basis and just before you start using it regularly. These inspections will find problems in your chimney and also provide instructions on how to solve those issues.
Who should you hire for the inspection?
There are two different people who could inspect your chimney. The first one is a traditional chimney sweep but they are not qualified, for the most part, to conduct inspections and make determinations on the quality of your chimney.
Chimney inspections and maintenance FAQs
Here are the answers to some of your most important questions about your chimney, how to maintain it, and what is involved with an inspection.
How Often Should I Do Chimney Inspection?
The CSIA & The NFPA (Chimney Safety Institute Of America, National Fire Protection Agency) both state that you should inspect your chimney ANNUALLY regardless of whether you have used the system or not.
What Can I Expect During My Chimney Inspection?
When you hire a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, you need to remember the services you are paying for. The first and most important thing is to hire a company with great credentials, experience, and knowledge about chimney systems.
What is a chimney inspection?
A thorough and careful chimney inspection will alert the homeowner to any physical defects in the firebox or flue, build up of creosote or the presence of any blockages. In addition, the chimney inspection will reveal the status of the structure, its stability, any leaks, or cracks.
What is the purpose of a chimney?
The primary function of a chimney is to remove soot, blockages and any creosote from the chimney liner, firebox or smoke chamber. If you keep your chimney clean, it will operate efficiently and safely. Even a small accumulation of creosote can create a fire.
What is chimney level 1?
Level one involves a general examination of the physical structure of the chimney, which includes assessing the flue liner, joints, interior walls, and chimney crown. This level of inspection will help identify soot and points of obstruction that may increase the risk of a fire.
Is chimney inspection a scam?
Random chimney inspection calls and scams. Each homeowner should be aware that if they get random calls from people claiming to be chimney inspectors who are offering big discounts, they should not fall for it. There are many scammers out there. Cheaper is not always better.
Do chimney inspectors have to be certified?
They do not play any role in the inspection of the chimney. All homeowners should also know that chimney inspectors need to be certified by the Chimney Institute of America or the National Fireplace Institute. One should always ask the inspector their credentials, proof of insurance, and references before hiring.
Do you need to ask a chimney inspector for references?
One should always ask the inspector their credentials, proof of insurance, and references before hiring. There is also no harm in asking the local chimney institute for references to a company that has chimney inspector contractors. The point is that the quality of the chimney inspector is very important. They need to be certified, and they need to have the necessary experience.
Is chimney inspection under regulated?
It is important to understand that the chimney industry is under-regulated. Therefore, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure annual inspections and to ask the right questions to find the most qualified people to do the job. There is no harm in consulting with the local chimney safety or National Fire Safety Institute if you have any questions. Always ask for a licensed and credentialed professional to inspect your chimney; otherwise, you risk having a fire in your home.
What is chimney sweep?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re different people. A chimney sweep is a technician capable of providing chimney cleaning services, while a chimney inspector must be certified by the CSIA or the National Fireplace Institute (NFI). These advanced inspection credentials are required by lenders and insurers to ensure your chimney’s safety.
How much does a chimney inspection cost?
For higher level inspections, you’ll pay more. Level two inspections can cost between $100 – $500, and level three inspections can range from $1,000 – $5,000. If you don’t use a certified chimney sweep, ...
What does a chimney inspection look for?
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. Then, if they deem it necessary, they’ll recommend any required work.
How to remove creosote from chimney?
Eventually, the only way to effectively remove the creosote may be to replace the chimney liner, which can be expensive.
What is the residue in a chimney called?
Over time, all of the smoke, gases and particles from the fires you’ve burned will create a buildup in your chimney. This residue, called creosote, is extremely flammable and when it’s allowed to build up, it can cause a chimney fire.
What is the second most common cause of home fire fatalities?
Heating equipment like chimneys are the second most common cause of home fire fatalities, and failure to clean this equipment is the leading factor contributing to home heating fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
What causes a burning nose in a fireplace?
Obstructions in your chimney – which can be caused by leaves, sticks or unwanted animal nesting – can prevent the escape of gases produced by your fireplace. The EPA says the biggest risk to people comes from fine particles, also called fine particulate matter. Microscopic particles from wood smoke can get into your eyes and respiratory system, and can cause burning eyes, runny nose and illnesses such as bronchitis.
What is a chimney inspection?
The chimney inspector will provide the home buyer with a detailed inspection report, including photos, and any issues that were found, and the corrective measures that will need to be taken. The report will also include the estimated cost or any repairs or replacement of any damage or defects that were observed during the inspection. The home buyer can use this information to negotiate with the seller to make the necessary repairs.
What is the difference between a chimney inspection and a home inspection?
During a home inspection, a home inspector conducts a visual review of the major home systems like the roof, plumbing, and foundation, for example. However, they usually don’t have the training, tools, and expertise of a chimney inspector who is certified to conduct an in-depth assessment of the chimney, fireplace, internal components, and connections. Without a chimney inspection, hidden dangers like creosote, flue liner cracks, spalling bricks, and other potential safety hazards may go unnoticed, leading to more expensive repairs after moving into your new home.
Do you have to clean your chimney after moving?
After you move into your new home, its essential that you continue to care and maintain your fireplace and chimney. The Chimney Safety Institute of America and national fire safety experts encourage homeowners to inspect and clean their chimney and fireplace annually.
It's that time of year again! If you have a fireplace, here's a quick way to tell if your chimney is safe to use
It's that time of year again! If you have a fireplace, here's a quick way to tell if your chimney is safe to use.
Check Your Chimney or Risk a Fire
Creosote buildup causes chimney fires. You should have your chimney professionally inspected or cleaned after every 70 fires. If you burn wet wood (which you shouldn’t), have it inspected or cleaned every 50 fires. Plus, check out these tips to learn how to safely work a fireplace.
Do a Quick Chimney Build-Up Check
Most chimney fires start in the smoke chamber/smoke shelf area, so it’s the most important area to clean. Since that area is hard to reach in some fireplaces, check yours to see if you can reach into it and still have room to maneuver a brush. Plus, see our foolproof ways to start a fire in the fireplace.
Why should I order chimney inspection when buying a home?
However, this can cause several issues to new owners. If the chimney or fireplace is damaged or not in a good state it could at least allow buyer to negotiate the price of the house. It is also in the interest of a buyer to buy an immaculate home.
How to choose a chimney sweep company?
How to choose the right chimney company. When choosing a chimney sweep company for level 2 inspection before buying or selling a house, it must be done right, and it must be legally valid. Best for you is to find chimney professionals that are licensed and will perform a valid chimney inspection. They will also issue a statement about the state ...
What is level 2 inspection?
Inspection level 2 has a several advantages to buyer and seller: Chimney isnpection level 2 guarantees that the state of the house you are selling is flawless. It is in the interest of the buyers and is therefore a significant advantage on the market. Chimney inspection is required by NFPA.
What are the different levels of chimney inspection?
There are three types of available chimney inspection. When buying a home, you are therefore choosing among three different levels of inspection, Level 1, level 2 and level 3 chimney inspection.
When choosing a level of chimney inspection when buying a home, should you consider?
When choosing a level of chimney inspection when buying a home, you should consider chimney and fireplace inspection that will check all the fuel burning fireplaces, stoves, fireplace inserts, chimney and every other connected burning device and its coil. There are three types of available chimney inspection.
When is a chimney level 2 inspection required?
Level 2 chimney inspection is required when buying or selling a home. It is also required when chimney survived weather damage or when you want to use the chimney for extended periods. It is best to be conducted by a certified chimney Sweep. Level 2 chimney inspection includes overall inspection of design and state of the chimneys ...
What happens when you sell a house that is also your home?
It can also happen that you will be accused of selling a house with an error that was made later, after you already sold your house.
What do real estate inspectors know?
Real estate home inspectors have a wide variety of knowledge in home construction. From plumbing, septic, roofing, and … Chimneys! However, some are very knowledgable in specific parts and on others, they may only know the basics. Truth be told, we rarely hear of a real estate inspector who is very knowledgable in chimneys and fireplaces.
What causes water damage to a chimney?
A broken chimney cap, rusted chase covers, brick damage, and defective flashing in your structure can lead to water damage. Discovering moist spots and weakened areas due to water damage can save your chimney from further deterioration.
How to inspect a chimney?
In order to understand how to properly inspect a chimney, the inspector needs to look within the interior of the chimney, specifically the flue liner. To see any damage done inside the chimney a camera attached to a set of flexible rods is put through the inner flue liner.
What is a level 2 chimney inspection?
A level II home analysis involves chimney inspection by a Certified Chimney Sweep Technician that specializes in examinations of fireplaces, flues, and entire chimneys. They go beyond looking at the exterior construction of the chimney to fully inspect the internal components. Which is critical because inside the chimney is where the hidden danger often lies.
Why is my chimney clogged?
A major cause of fire and exposure to smoke and gas is an obstruction of your chimney. The last thing you want when you purchase a home is to realize your fireplace or stove chimney is clogged, making it dangerous and inoperable.