We Provide Different Levels of Chimney Inspections for Different Needs
When Chim Cheree, The Chimney Specialists opened for business in 1978 in the Upstate South Carolina region, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) was many years off from establishing the three levels of chimney inspections. The NFPA is a highly respected non-profit organization. Their mission is to provide fire safety education to the public and industry professionals. They want to provide specific guidelines for chimney inspections of all kinds.
No matter which level of chimney inspection you need, our chimney professionals can help by providing three levels of inspections. In order to receive a certification from the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), our technicians have to pass an exam on the NFPA 211. Our professionals know all three levels of inspections very well. We would like to tell you more about each level and when you need it for your chimney.
LEVEL 1
A Level 1 is the most basic level of chimney inspection. This is included when Chim Cheree, The Chimney Specialists sweeps your chimney. This is the level for your chimney if you have lived in the same home, and if you have not made any changes to your chimney and fireplace system since your last professional inspection.
This level of inspection is recommended to homeowners by the CSIA and the NFPA annually. Level 1 inspection includes a visual check of all readily accessible parts of the fireplace and the chimney. Our technicians will look for flue blockages, water damage, and potential problems that might make your chimney unsafe for use.
LEVEL 2
If you have made updates to your chimney system since your last inspection, you will need a Level 2 chimney inspection. This level includes everything performed in a Level 1, and it also include a look at your attic, crawl space, and basement. We also can get a more in-depth look at your chimney because specialized video cameras are used.
For this reason, a Level 2 inspection is required in situations when you have to file a home insurance claim. These situations include after an earthquake or a severe weather event such as a lightning strike or hurricane. This level is also needed when you are buying or selling a home.
LEVEL 3
If a chimney has endured a catastrophic event like a chimney fire or a tornado, serious structural damage have occurred. In these cases, a Level 3 chimney inspection is necessary. This level requires an invasive process, and we may have to remove the chimney crown, a chimney wall, or other components to access the problem. For this reason, this level will not be recommended unless we strongly believe you need it.
No matter what shape your chimney is in, Chim Cheree, The Chimney Specialists provides all three levels of professional chimney inspections. Contact us today to schedule your annual professional chimney service appointment with our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps!