Many homebuyers aren’t aware that the typical home inspection does not include a proper Level 2 chimney inspection. Level 2 inspections are recommended by the National Fire Protection Association and described in its NFPA 211 Standard. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) also states that all active chimneys should be inspected annually and upon the sale of the home.
The Chimney Guys provides Level 2 chimney inspections throughout the greater Columbus, Ohio, region. If you’re looking to buy – or sell – a home, this inspection should be on your to-do list.
Real Estate Chimney Inspections are Thorough
Real estate Level 2 chimney inspections are more thorough than those performed during a typical home inspection. A real estate inspection includes all the tasks in a basic diagnostic inspection (Level 1) while adding a more complete evaluation by video camera.
Specialized video imaging technology allows our inspectors to see way down into the interior flue area and detect early and advanced signs of chimney damage and malfunction.
Benefits of a Level 2 Chimney Inspection
A proper Level 2 real estate chimney inspection can uncover:
- Chimney liner damage that can allow smoke, carbon monoxide and flames to escape
- Excess creosote buildup that can cause a chimney fire
- Drafting obstructions caused by leaves, twigs, nesting materials and other debris
- Interior chimney masonry damage
- Evidence of a chimney leak
Level 2 inspections also look at other parts of the chimney system, including:
- Chimney caps and flue covers
- Concrete chimney crowns
- Chimney chases and chase tops
- Exterior bricks and mortar
- Chimney flashing
- Fireplace damper
- Firebox and refractory panels
What's the Difference?: Level 1 & 2 Inspections
Basic Level 1 chimney inspections are needed yearly, similar to an annual checkup with your doctor. These inspections should be performed when there’s nothing obviously wrong with your chimney system.
A real estate chimney inspection is often performed when no known chimney problems exist. Since the home is in the process of being transferred to a new owner, extra care must be taken in evaluating the efficiency and safety of the chimney. Should a Level 2 inspection uncover damage, the problems can be fixed before the sale is complete.
You Can’t Inspect Your Own Chimney
You can use and enjoy your chimney, but you can’t properly inspect it. The Chimney Guys employs trained, experienced chimney technicians to evaluate your chimney and diagnose problems with it. We’re able to see things that you can’t see, and we know what those things mean.
Along with inspecting your Columbus-area chimney, we can perform any types of repairs that are needed to expedite the sale of the home.
![Real estate level 2 chimney inspection in Columbus OH and Grove City OH](https://therealchimneyguys.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/entry-6.jpg)
Schedule Your Real Estate Chimney Inspection
If you’re buying or selling a home, let The Chimney Guys take care of the all-important inspection of your chimney and fireplace system.
Our CSIA-certified technicians are here to help with Level 2 inspections as well as chimney repairs, chimney rebuilding, chimney cleaning and professional installations of fireplaces and stoves.
Since 2004, we’ve offered real estate chimney inspections in Columbus OH, Pickerington OH, Reynoldsburg OH, New Albany OH, Mount Vernon OH, Hilliard OH, Lewis Center OH, Grove City OH, Delaware OH, Canal Winchester OH, and many other Ohio communities.
Reach us at (614) 446-1221, or get in touch with our contact form.