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What Does a Level 2 Chimney Inspection Consist Of?

A level 2 chimney inspection is a more in-depth evaluation of your chimney system – more extensive than a basic (level 1) inspection. You’ll want to schedule a level 2 inspection during any of these scenarios: after changes in use, after weather/storm-related damage, during property transfers, if you’ve had a chimney fire, or after extended periods of disuse. 

What happens during a level 2 inspection?A certified chimney technician performing a Level 2 inspection will:

• examine all accessible portions of the chimney system
• examine areas of the chimney in attics, crawl spaces, and basements
• look for signs of deterioration, improper construction, etc.
• check for anything that could lead to a fire or carbon monoxide hazard
• use basic tools to remove any panels or coverings for an in-depth look
• use video/camera equipment to see your flue’s interior

It’s the camera equipment that really sets a level 2 chimney inspection apart. This equipment is inserted into the flue to capture a detailed view of the chimney liner from top to bottom. This helps the technician spot hidden cracks, gaps in mortar joints, damaged tiles, or creosote that wouldn’t be visible with the naked eye.

After the inspection is completed, the technician will document their findings in a written report – including any video or photo evidence – then offer repair recommendations based on what they find.

How Does a Level 2 Chimney Inspection Differ From a Level 1?

While some of the tasks involved in level 1 and level 2 chimney inspections overlap, a level 2 inspection will be much more thorough and detailed, giving you a clearer overall picture of your chimney’s condition.

• A Level 1 inspection is a more basic overview and is appropriate when there have been no changes to your appliance or chimney system. If you haven’t noticed any issues and are diligent about booking inspections every year, this is the level of inspection you’ll need. The technician will examine all readily accessible parts of the chimney and fireplace, watching for any signs of damages, blockages, or buildup.
• A Level 2 inspectionis much more comprehensive. It includes everything from a Level 1 inspection, as well as a more in-depth examination of areas that are not usually accessed during a routine service – like attics, basements, and crawl spaces (if the chimney runs through them). It also implements the use of internal cameras, and panels and coverings can be removed to get an accurate overview of the entire system.

In short, a Level 1 inspection is like a routine physical exam, while a Level 2 is more like diagnostic testing if something out of the norm is happening. If your chimney’s situation has changed in any way, a Level 2 inspection is the right choice to ensure everything is running as safely as possible and up to code.

Do Home Inspectors Perform a Level 2 Inspection?

Whether you’re buying a home or selling your current one, if the home has a chimney, you’ll want to book a level 2 chimney inspection with a certified fireplace technician. And yes – that even applies if you’ve already had a home inspection completed.

Home inspectors do not perform Level 2 chimney inspections. 

Doesn’t the homeowner look at the fireplace, though? Technically, yes – yet, while a home inspector may look at the general condition of the fireplace and chimney during a home sale, their evaluation is limited – and non-specialized. They do not have the training or equipment required to carry out a true Level 2 inspection as defined by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

What they willdo is look over the exterior of the chimney and the readily visible parts of the fireplace – and they may shine a light in the firebox or quickly up the flue. If there’s any obvious signs of damage, such as cracks in the firebrick, a rusted damper, or visible structural issues, they’ll make note of that…but if there are problems hidden away, they won’t see them.

Many buyers assume that a home inspection covers the fireplace and chimney in full, but that’s simply not the case. And trusting the final results of a home evaluation could lead to unpleasant – and expensive – surprises later on when you want to use your fireplace in the fall. 

Remember that, because home inspectors don’t use internal video cameras or access concealed areas (crawlspaces, attics, etc.), they cannot accurately assess the internal condition of the flue or confirm whether the system is code-compliant or ready for use.

Bottom line – a home inspector can offer a surface-level overview, but only a certified chimney technician can perform a proper Level 2 inspection.

Do I Need a Professional Chimney Inspection if I’ve Had a Home Inspection?

Yes, you absolutely need a professional level 2 chimney inspection when buying a home – even if you’ve already had a home inspection completed. While a home inspection is an important step in the buying process, it does not provide a complete or detailed evaluation of the chimney and fireplace system.

Most home inspectors are generalists – and their chimney assessments are limited to what is easily visible. They are not trained or equipped to perform a comprehensive inspection that ensures the chimney is running as safely as possible and up to code.

A professional chimney inspection – specifically a Level 2 chimney inspection – is strongly recommended whenever a property is transferred from one owner to another. These overviews go beyond a simple visual check and include specialized tools to examine the full length of the flue liner, chimney structure, and appliance connections.

If You Need a Grand Junction Chimney Inspection, Reach Out

Don’t leave the safety of your chimney to chance. Whether you’re buying a new home or preparing for a major upgrade, a professional level 2 inspection can uncover hidden issues before they become costly repairs. Give us a call today to schedule your inspection with the trusted team at Stove Depot and Chimney Works – we’re Grand Junction’s go-to experts for all things chimney and fireplace.