The scope of work performed in the
inspection or evaluation of a fireplace, stove or other
venting system had previously been left to the discretion of the chimney service technician. On January
13, 2000, the
National Fire Protection Association adopted these levels of inspection
into code NFPA 211 (Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances) that remove
much of that "discretion". Inspections are now clearly defined as Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3.
NFPA 211 is the standard upon which
certified chimney sweeps base their services and
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are tested to
these three levels of inspection. Always ask for the
level of inspection that you believe will be most
appropriate for your chimney and venting system. Each
level of inspection covers specific items depending on
the individual appliance and venting system.
Below is an explanation of the three levels of
inspections and what services your chimney service
technician should provide for each level as defined by
the
NFPA 211:
-
Level 1 inspections
If your appliance or your venting
system has not changed and you plan to use your system
as you have in the past, then a Level 1 inspection is a
minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended
for a chimney under continued service, under the same
conditions, and with the continued use of the same
appliance. In a Level 1 inspection, your chimney service
technician should examine the readily accessible**
portions of the chimney exterior, interior and
accessible* portions of the appliance and the chimney
connection. Your technician will be looking for the
basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as
well as the basic appliance installation and
connections. The technician will also verify the chimney
is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.
- Level 2 Inspections
A Level 2 inspection is required
when any changes are made to the system. Changes can
include a
change in the fuel type, changes to the shape
of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining), or the
replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar
type, input rating or efficiency. Additionally, a Level
2 inspection is required upon the sale or transfer of a
property or after an operation malfunction or external
event that is likely to have caused damage to the
chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events
as well as weather events are all indicators that this
level of inspection is warranted.
A Level 2 inspection
is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1
inspection.� When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection
suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be
performed without special tools to access concealed
areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is
recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper
construction and the condition of concealed portions of
the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or
destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached
portions of the chimney or building structure will be
required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection. A
Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1
inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney
exterior
and interior including attics, crawl spaces and
basements. It will address proper clearances from
combustibles in accessible locations.
There are no specialty tools (i.e. demolition equipment)
required to open doors, panels or coverings in
performing a Level 2 inspection. A Level 2 inspection
shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning
or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces
and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the
chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently
attached portions of the chimney or building structure
or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.
-
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Level 3 Inspections
� A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items
checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well
as the removal of certain components of the building or
chimney where necessary. Removal of components (i.e.,
chimney crown, interior chimney wall) shall be required
only when necessary to gain access to areas that are the
subject of the inspection. When serious hazards are
suspected, a Level 3 inspection may well be required to
determine the condition of the chimney system.
