What Is A Level 2 Inspection?

A Level 1 chimney inspection, what a home inspector conducts, covers just the basics. When transferring property, a more extensive Level 2 real estate inspection is recommended by the F.I.R.E. Certified Inspector Program and the Chimney Safety Institute of America. 

A Level 2 Inspection include close examination of all accessible chimney and fireplace components (meaning there will be no tearing out of walls or dismantling the chimney structure). Inspectors will access the attic, crawl spaces and basement, as necessary to visually inspect the entire chimney.  

Using a Chim-Scan inspection camera we will examine the flue where we are looking for soot and/or excessive creosote. Debris such as leaves, twigs and small-animal nests can get into a chimney and lead to a serious air-flow problem, which can cause smoke and toxins to back up into the home and create a health risk.  Finally, we will also be looking for any damage, such a seismic damage or damage due to a sudden occurrence (i.e. chimney fires, lightning…).