Your Guide to Chimney Inspection Levels
If your home has a wood- or gas-burning fireplace, a chimney is necessary to guide smoke and fumes out of the house. Maintaining the chimney is part of responsible homeownership, and neglecting it could increase the risk of a structurally unstable or fire-prone chimney. To help you understand chimney inspections, learn about the three levels of care and maintenance as classified by the National Fire Protection Agency.
3 Levels of Chimney Inspection
Level 1
A level 1 chimney inspection covers all the essentials. If you’ve regularly used your fireplace without issues arising, you can choose this option. The technician will use a flashlight to inspect the interior of your chimney visually, and they’ll get on your roof to examine the exterior. This inspection ensures that your chimney is structurally sound and not clogging with soot and other combustible material.
Level 2
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his level is more thorough and required in fewer circumstances. You’ll need a level 2 inspection if you’re changing the fuel you use in your fireplace, if there’s recently been a chimney or house fire, or if your area has experienced an earthquake. All these occurrences can lead to structural weakness or increased fire risk. The technician may use advanced technology like a video camera to inspect the interior, and they’ll examine the chimney in all accessible areas, such as the attic.
Level 3
This inspection is relatively rare and only needed when you suspect structural damage. The technician will undertake a comprehensive inspection of your chimney, inside and out. A level 3 inspection may require the removal of portions of your chimney or your home to allow full access.
Not sure which level of chimney inspection you need? Contact the experts at Abbey Road Chimney Sweeps. They’ve been servicing Dayton, OH, since 1982 with chimney inspections, cleanings, and repairs. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace this winter without worry. Call (937) 833-0505 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about this locally owned and family-operated business on their website.
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