A home sale is a significant transaction that comes with a lot of paperwork and many important decisions, and it’s essential to be prepared for every step of the process – including the inspection. But what most people don’t realize is that a basic home inspection won’t cover it all when it comes to the chimney. Because of this, a level 2 chimney inspection is necessary when buying or selling a home.
Home inspectors only perform a cursory examination (and are not properly educated in chimneys), so they may overlook major concerns and damages that are now the responsibility of the new homeowners. If you’re buying or selling a home, get a thorough inspection scheduled with our crew today.
What’s the Difference Between a Home Inspection & Chimney Inspection?
So, what’s the difference between a basic home inspection and a chimney inspection?
Home Inspections
A home inspection is a visual examination of the accessible areas of a home to ensure its safety. It is a thorough inspection of the condition of the site – from the roof to the foundation. The inspector will look for any problems that could affect the value of the home or pose a safety hazard to the future potential occupants. Having a professional inspector who is experienced and qualified to perform a home inspection is vital to get an accurate assessment of the home.
So, what does that mean for the fireplace? In a home inspection, the inspector will check the lintels above the fireplace openings, the damper doors, and the clean-out doors and frames. Every sign of damage or wear and tear is noted in the home inspection report. If any problems are found in the process, the inspector will recommend that they be repaired or replaced so that the home is up to code and safe for occupancy.
Here are some things that home inspectors are not required to check:
- Flue or vent system
- Interior of chimneys
- Ignite or extinguish fires
- Automatic fuel-fed devices
- Assess whether a chimney sweep is required
- Parts associated with heat-distribution assistance
In the end, your inspector isn’t actually required to do a technical inspection of the chimney system – which means many important issues could get missed.
Level 2 Chimney Inspections
A Level 2 chimney inspection is a more comprehensive and detailed inspection of the chimney and fireplace. In addition to real estate transactions, these should be completed when changes have been made to the structure, if there has been a change in fuel type, (for instance, moving from wood to gas), or when alterations to the flue’s design or construction have been made (such as relining). Essentially, any time the system is altered, a level 2 inspection is necessary.
A Level 2 inspection is also necessary following a malfunction or outside incident that may have damaged the chimney. Earthquakes, chimney fires, building fires, and other natural disasters are all good examples of things that can hinder the way a chimney functions.
What makes a level 2 inspection really stand apart is the sweep’s use of internal camera equipment to get a closer look at problem areas within the system. This ensure every part of the system is looked over and that no hidden dangers or buildup are missed.
The Benefits of Having a Level 2 Chimney Inspection
So, is it really crucial to have this inspection completed prior to finalizing the purchase or sale of your home? Many feel comfortable with the inspector’s assessment, and don’t feel like adding another task to their to-do list during an already stressful time. That said, this is one thing that is a must.
Here are some benefits of having this type of inspection completed:
Secure your investment: A home is a big investment, and you want to make sure that your investment is secure. Having a level 2 chimney inspection completed will give you peace of mind knowing that your chimney and home is in good condition – and that you aren’t going to face some major repair jobs down the line.- Safeguard your family: A level 2 chimney inspection goes above and beyond a level 1 inspection. This type of inspection is more thorough and can identify potential hazards – like creosote buildup, cracks in your flue, water damage, and more – that could put your family at risk and investment at risk.
- Prevent costly repairs: By having a professional inspect the chimney, you can avoid expensive repairs down the road. This is especially beneficial for home sellers, as it can help make the selling process smoother.
- Avoid your legal issues: In some states, it is required by law to have a level 2 chimney inspection done when selling a home. This is to protect both the buyer and seller from any potential legal issues that could arise from an unsafe chimney.
Book With Us Today
Being a responsible homebuyer or seller means being proactive about the different aspects of the home that need to be inspected. The chimney is one area that should not be overlooked. A level 2 chimney inspection is the most effective way to ensure that the chimney is in good condition and does not pose any safety hazard.
If you’re looking for a reliable and professional chimney service, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At Owens Chimney Systems, your safety is our top priority, and we have been successfully serving customers for over 30 years. With our experienced team, you can rest assured that your home is in good hands. Call us today at 704-850-6761 to schedule an appointment, or visit our website to learn more about our services.