Real Estate Inspections

This is a before image of a chimney in dire need of repair in Toledo Ohio 2018

Is a chimney inspection necessary?

Do home inspectors inspect chimneys?

But before you light your first fire of the season or the first fire in your new home, make sure your fireplace and chimney are in good working condition. Experts recommend having your chimney inspected annually to help prevent fires and carbon monoxide intrusion.
According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, there are three levels of chimney inspection.

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

"If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance.

​In a Level 1 inspection, your chimney service technician should examine the readily accessible**...."

Chimney inspections should be performed by chimney safety technicians. More from the CSIA:

Level 2 Chimney Inspections

"A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type, changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a property..."

When a Level 1 or 2 chimney inspection suggests a hidden problem and special tools will be required to determine the cause and required action, a Level 3 inspection is called for. According to the CSIA:

Level 3 Chimney Inspection Explanation

"A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary..."

For the complete expanation of chimney inspection levels, read the entire CSIA post here.