14 Point Safety Inspection

 

Our Chimney Sweeps use state-of-the-art equipment to inspect 1st- and 2nd- story chimneys of all kinds, including oil, wood, and gas burning chimneys. We

look for any problems that could prevent peak performance and recommend

what is needed for your system to burn cleanly and safely.

 

 The Three Levels of Inspection

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)'s 211 (Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances) is the standard on which the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps base their inspections on. This standard classifies chimney and venting system inspections into three levels - Level I, Level II, Level III. Each level of inspection has a specific scope of work and specific criteria.

Level I Inspection

This inspection is recommended when the homeowner is planning to maintain its current use. In general most inspections are level I. In a level I inspection a CSIA certified technician verifies that the chimney structure is sound and that the chimney is up to date on all accessible codes and clearances.

Level II Inspection

The addition of a new home heating appliance or a change in the type of fuel a homeowner is burning requires a level II inspection. This inspection level is also required upon the sale or transfer of property, after an operating malfunction, or and external event that has damaged the chimney or venting system. The scope of a level II inspection includes that of a level I inspection plus the inspection of accessible portions of the attics, crawl spaces and basements. It may also includes a performance test such as smoke tests or a pressure test and possibly an interior chimney video inspection if recommended by the certified chimney sweep.

Level III Inspection

When a Level I or Level II inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without access to concealed areas, a level III inspection is recommended. This type of inspection confirms the proper construction and condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Level III inspections are generally necessary when investigating an incident that has caused damage to a chimney or building, or where a hazard is detected and suspected.

Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the Nation Fire Protection Association recommend yearly chimney inspections to help prevent fire and carbon monoxide poisonings.