What are chimney inspection levels 1, 2 and 3?
A chimney inspection is not one single thing. Here is how the three levels differ.
Chimney professionals describe inspections in three levels, based on NFPA 211. The right level depends on what is going on with your chimney, not on how much you want to spend.
Level 1
This is the routine yearly inspection. We look at the parts of the chimney that are easy to reach, and we check that the chimney is free of obstructions and buildup. It is meant for a chimney that has been used the same way it always has and has no known problems.
Level 2
Level 2 includes everything in Level 1, plus a closer look inside the flue, usually with a camera. It is the right level when you buy or sell a house, when you change the fireplace or add a stove or insert, or after a chimney fire or storm damage.
Level 3
Level 3 is a deeper investigation of hidden areas, used when a serious hazard is suspected and the lower levels cannot confirm it. It may involve opening up part of the chimney or the wall around it.
Which one do you need?
Call us and tell us what is happening. If you are not sure, we will point you to the level that makes sense. More on our chimney inspection page, or call (224) 271-0137.
Tell us what you’re seeing
Leave your name, number and a few words about the chimney or fireplace. We read every request and call you back. If it is urgent, call us instead: (224) 271-0137.