So you’ve found the perfect place for yourself—and it has a gorgeous fireplace that’s got you dreaming of cozy winter nights when you can snuggle in front of a hearty fire. The only thing left to do is to sign on the dotted line, and the place is yours.
But before you seal the deal, you want to rule out the possibility that the chimney and fireplace could affect the negotiating process. A professional chimney inspection can help you determine the exact state of the chimney and venting systems.
A home inspection might not cover a chimney inspection
While it’s true that a home inspection can help you get the surface level details about the chimney structure, it’s not nearly as thorough. These inspectors are not equipped with the proper tools and equipment to check your chimney; trusting them with a thorough chimney inspection is very risky.
If you’re buying a new home, you want to be assured that the chimney is safe to use. There are many things that make a chimney unsafe to use, like flue fires, water damage, chimney blockage that comprises the integrity of your structure. Creosote buildup is another serious problem that leads to fires and toxic fumes in the house. A certified, professional chimney inspector has the ability to detect and assess this damage.
Real Estate Chimney Inspection Levels
So what can you expect from a real estate chimney inspection? We understand that no two chimney needs are the same, which is why at CT Chimney Repair, we perform three levels of review.
AtLevel 1, we focus on the visible and readily available parts of the chimney and fireplace. A Level 2 inspection includes a visual examination of both the outside and inside of the structure and any places that are hidden from view. Professionals usually access basements, attics and crawl places as well to get a more thorough review. Excess soot, cracks in the flue, drafting issues, damage to brickwork and crowns, and blockage is checked for by a team of experts.
Generally, after completing Level 2, a report of our findings and recommendations is given to the client. If a Level 3 inspection is needed, then this calls for destruction and construction dismantling of parts is necessary for continued use.
The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 recommends real estate owners get annual chimney inspections. It’s also a good idea to go for Level 1 inspections a few times a year just to make sure everything is in top shape.
CT Chimney Repair offers professional chimney repair and comprehensive chimney inspection services at reasonable rates all across the state of Connecticut. Get in touch with our chimney experts today for further information.
