Studies consistently show that people looking for a new home would be willing to pay more for one with a properly functioning fireplace already in place. There’s simply no denying that fireplaces add a welcoming ambiance to any living space and make countless evenings at home cozier and more comfortable.
That said, the last thing anyone wants is to finally settle into their new living space, only to discover that their fireplace actually needs a lot of repair work or renovations.
If you’re on the search for the perfect home and a fireplace is on your checklist, one thing we urge you to do is invest in a level 2 chimney inspection from a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified Chimney Sweep. That way, should issues be uncovered, the original homeowner will be responsible for either having it repaired or adjusting the selling price of the home accordingly.
I’ve Gotten My Home Inspection Done! Am I Good To Go?
Many wonder if a chimney inspection is really necessary if they’ve already gotten a home inspection done. After all, most home inspectors check out the chimney during their analysis, right?
Well, while your home inspector likely did a brief examination of your chimney, it in no way matches the in-depth analysis completed in a level 2 inspection. In fact, your inspector is not required to inspect a large number of chimney components, and they’re not required to perform a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)-style Phase II chimney inspection, either. They essentially check to see if there is a spark arrester, if the damper works, and whether or not they can see any obstructions from the top or bottom, but this limited evaluation won’t really give them any insight into the actual functionality or safety of the system.
In the end, while the home inspector’s report is important for many areas of your home, their technical knowledge won’t cover it all when it comes to your chimney. You’ll need a trained and CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep on the job to ensure nothing is missed and your system is functioning as safely as possible.
What Does a Level 2 Inspection Entail?
What is a level 2 inspection, and how does it differ from a level 1 inspection? Well, a level 2 inspection will include everything involved in a level 1 inspection, meaning the inspector will look over all readily accessible parts of the chimney, checking for obstructions and damage along the way.
What makes a level 2 inspection different is the use of camera and scanning equipment to get a more in-depth analysis of the state of your chimney as well as the inspection of all accessible areas surrounding they system, including attics and crawlspaces. The inspector will use an image scanning device and scan your flue, helping ensure that every accessible area of your system is inspected for defects or safety hazards.
At The Chimney Doctor, we’re required to inspect every flue inside of a chimney system the first time we inspect it. This is because, in a combined chimney system, damage in one flue can have negative impacts on any flues connected with it or allow combustion byproducts or carbon monoxide to flow between flues, and possibly back into the home. In order to keep our customers safer and their homes better protected, we strive to be as thorough as possible and always put your safety first.
Why Trust a CSIA-Certified Sweep?
So, why is hiring a CSIA-certified sweep the recommended route? Well, sweeps that have become certified with the CSIA have proved themselves to have a high level of dedication to becoming as knowledgeable and well-informed as possible.
Gaining this certification takes time, money, and commitment. Sweeps are required to order textbooks, then study them enough to complete an exhaustive exam process.
And once they pass the test it doesn’t end there! In order to stay certified, sweeps must renew their certification every three years. This ensures they are staying knowledgeable and up-to-date on any new techniques and codings/regulations in this ever-evolving industry.
On top of everything else, the CSIA has a strict Code of Ethics that all sweeps are required to sign before obtaining their certification. By signing, they promise to be honest, fair, and respectful, putting the safety and satisfaction of the homeowner above all else.
Let’s face it – when it comes to investing in a new home, you want to be certain all of your bases are covered, right? Having a level 2 inspection completed by a qualified chimney tech is one surefire way to do just that. Make sure you don’t face any unpleasant surprises by getting in touch with our team right away. We’d love to help you out!
The Excellent Care You Deserve Is Just a Phone Call Away
Whether you’re needing a professional chimney inspection completed, are concerned about creosote build-up, need some masonry repairs done, or something else, we’re the team to trust in with it all. We can install any necessary chimney components, patch up areas that need some TLC, and we can even help you invest in a new appliance if that’s the route you’re currently taking.
So, don’t put off the care you deserve. Call our expert technicians at (970) 234-3330 now. We look forward to speaking with you soon!
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