Make Chimney Inspection a Priority When Buying or Selling a Home

When buying or selling a home with a fireplace, remember that home inspectors aren’t required to inspect chimneys. Be sure that you make chimney inspection a priority when buying or selling a home. A level 2 chimney inspection is required in this type of transaction. Below, learn why it benefits you to hire a licensed, certified chimney sweep to perform a level 2 chimney inspection when buying or selling a home.

What the Home Inspector Doesn’t Do

You may be familiar with the checklist a home inspector uses to determine the true condition of a home. It’s a very detailed checklist! But did you know that the safety and operational soundness of a fireplace and chimney system aren’t included? The following are among the things home inspectors don’t do:

• Inspect the chimney flue
• Visually check the interior of the chimney
• Check to see if a gas fireplace ignites or extinguishes fires
• Check pellet stoves or fireplaces, which are automatic fuel-fed devices
• Assess the need to hire a chimney sweep
• Check heat-distribution parts

What is a Level 2 Chimney Inspection?

There are 3 levels or types of chimney inspections, which are defined by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). What sets a level 2 inspection apart is that internal camera equipment is used to look at the chimney flue from top to bottom. This is important because if a chimney flue has even so much as a tiny crack in it, it would be dangerous and possibly life-threatening to use it. Chimney liner replacement or repair will be needed before using the heating appliance again.

When is a Level 2 Inspection Required?

When you make chimney inspection a priority when buying or selling a home, know that the level 2 inspection is what’s required. Not only are they required in real estate transactions, but level 2 inspections are needed in the following circumstances:

• There has been a change in the fuel type used by the appliance (i.e., from wood to gas)
• There has been a chimney fire or another type of malfunction
• An outside incident may have caused damage to the chimney, such as a natural disaster
• A structural change has been made to the fireplace or chimney
• The chimney has been relined
• Other alterations have been made to the flue’s construction or design
• Any other changes have been made to the fireplace or chimney system

Benefits of Level 2 Chimney Inspections

Before you can finalize the sale or purchase of a home, it is crucial to schedule a level 2 chimney inspection. By making chimney inspection a priority when buying or selling a home, you will secure your investment, protect your family, avoid costly and unexpected repairs, and avoid possible legal issues.

Call National Chimney Cleaners for a Professional Chimney Inspection

Do you live in or near Stamford CT, Fairfield County, Parsippany NJ, or Morris County? If so, to make chimney inspection a priority when buying or selling a home, call the chimney professionals at National Chimney Cleaners. Our certified chimney experts have the training and qualifications to provide chimney inspections, masonry repairs, chimney cleaning, fireplace installation, chimney cap installation, and more. Schedule your appointment today by filling out our convenient online form or by calling 800-631-6177.