Chimney Inspections -
During the course of a typical home inspection, the chimney system will be visually inspected for functionality, damage, missing components and general wear-and-tear. The home inspector is not expected to conduct a technically exhaustive inspection of the chimney, but rather observe potential safety hazards and material defects.
Noble Home Inspections observes all parts of the chimney system that are readily accessible, so long as it is safe to do so. As outlined in the Oregon Home Inspectors Standards of Practice document, home inspectors are required to observe and describe chimney systems, but not the interiors or flues. When accessible and safe to do so, however, all portions of the chimney are inspected and reported on.
In most cases, a “Level 1” chimney inspection and cleaning will be recommended, to be performed by a qualified and licensed contractor. This is regardless of the condition of the chimney during the course of the home inspection. As noted below, a “Level 1” inspection is recommended annually, and they can help identify issues which may not be able to be observed by the home inspector in every situation.
During the course of a typical home inspection, the chimney system will be visually inspected for functionality, damage, missing components and general wear-and-tear. The home inspector is not expected to conduct a technically exhaustive inspection of the chimney, but rather observe potential safety hazards and material defects.
Noble Home Inspections observes all parts of the chimney system that are readily accessible, so long as it is safe to do so. As outlined in the Oregon Home Inspectors Standards of Practice document, home inspectors are required to observe and describe chimney systems, but not the interiors or flues. When accessible and safe to do so, however, all portions of the chimney are inspected and reported on.
In most cases, a “Level 1” chimney inspection and cleaning will be recommended, to be performed by a qualified and licensed contractor. This is regardless of the condition of the chimney during the course of the home inspection. As noted below, a “Level 1” inspection is recommended annually, and they can help identify issues which may not be able to be observed by the home inspector in every situation.
From the exterior, on a recent inspection: chimney had been neglected for some time, and was missing cap with spark arrestor. Crown was also deteriorated, and other sections of chimney system were in similarly poor condition.
Types of Chimney Inspections:
“Level 1” : An annually recommended checkup, to check for obstructions and damage to the overall system. Normally combined with a chimney cleaning, the contractor will visually examine the exterior and interior of the chimney, checking for airflow issues, obstructions, leaks and damage. During the cleaning process, they will work to remove soot, creosote buildup (flammable) and other obstructions (nests, leaves, dead animals, etc).
“Level 2” : In addition to the “Level 1” inspection, this level includes having the contractor move into the crawlspace and attic, or other typically confined areas, for a closer look at the hidden sections of the chimney. A video inspection is also performed, in order to review the flue lining and interior walls of the chimney, for damage and signs of water intrusion, among other issues.
“Level 3” : This type of inspection would only be recommended if there are indications of significant damage, or the previous inspection methods were unable to observe portions of the chimney system. This inspection is intrusive, and can require removing materials (drywall, etc) or sections of the chimney structure, in order to access suspected issue areas.
“Level 1” : An annually recommended checkup, to check for obstructions and damage to the overall system. Normally combined with a chimney cleaning, the contractor will visually examine the exterior and interior of the chimney, checking for airflow issues, obstructions, leaks and damage. During the cleaning process, they will work to remove soot, creosote buildup (flammable) and other obstructions (nests, leaves, dead animals, etc).
“Level 2” : In addition to the “Level 1” inspection, this level includes having the contractor move into the crawlspace and attic, or other typically confined areas, for a closer look at the hidden sections of the chimney. A video inspection is also performed, in order to review the flue lining and interior walls of the chimney, for damage and signs of water intrusion, among other issues.
“Level 3” : This type of inspection would only be recommended if there are indications of significant damage, or the previous inspection methods were unable to observe portions of the chimney system. This inspection is intrusive, and can require removing materials (drywall, etc) or sections of the chimney structure, in order to access suspected issue areas.
A safe and efficient fireplace adds warmth and functionality to any home.
Here is a great diagram of a fireplace and chimney, with individual components and sections labeled for easy identification. Credit to Robert Berry.