San Diego Chimney Inspections: We Perform Video Chimney Flue Inspections You Can Trust

Do I Need an Inspection if I Rarely Use My Fireplace?

Fair question, and the answer is yes – even if you rarely use your fireplace, it’s still important to schedule regular chimney inspections. All chimneys, whether used often or not, are exposed to the elements year-round, and many issues can develop over time – issues that aren’t related to how often (or not) you use your fireplace.

Issues like what?

• Blockages and animal nests. Chimneys can become blocked by debris like leaves, twigs, or animal nests, all of which trigger deterioration and invite other issues into your home. Animals living in your flue can bring on smells and attract pests, and their buildup will be a big fire hazard if you ever do want to put your system to use later on. And any other buildup will block the flue and prevent smoke and other fumes from venting properly too.
• Structural damage and wear. Over time, weather conditions – like rain and temperature fluctuations – can weaken the chimney structure, causing cracks in the masonry or flue liner. Even if you don’t use the fireplace often, this structural damage can compromise the chimney’s ability to function safely when you do decide to use it. This damage could make other areas of your home (like your roof, attic, or interior walls) more vulnerable too.
• Moisture issues and water damage. Water is one of the biggest enemies of chimneys – and even an unused chimney can suffer from moisture problems. Rain and humidity can invite issues like a damaged chimney cap, broken down brickwork, flashing deterioration, and more – all of which can extend to the rest of the chimney and eventually cause damage within your home.
• Hidden internal damages. Many chimney problems, such as deteriorating flue liners or blockages, aren’t noticeable without an inspection. These issues, if left untreated, can worsen over time and become more expensive to repair. It’s best to spot them early, so that you can treat them right away…before they spread any further.

All of these things not only put your home at risk when you want to light a fire, but can also impact the value of the home if and when you sell down the line (during which time a level 2 inspection will be completed).

Blockages, damaged flue liners, or creosote buildup can lead to dangerous situations where smoke, carbon monoxide, or fire escapes into your home…it’s not worth taking any chances. A professional chimney inspection is always a good investment.

Are There Different Levels of Chimney Inspections?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) highlight three levels of inspections:

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

This is the most basic type of inspection and is recommended for chimneys that have been regularly maintained, used appropriately, and haven’t undergone any significant changes. A Level 1 inspection is typically done annually and focuses on visible portions of the chimney.

Note: While level 1 inspections don’t typically use video equipment, our sweeps use them in every inspection we perform.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Our technician will visually inspect all accessible parts of the chimney, including the exterior, interior, and any chimney connections.
• They will check the chimney structure, flue, and basic components (damper, chimney cap, etc.) to ensure everything is in good condition.
• They will identify issues like creosote buildup, blockages, or minor cracks in the masonry – and make necessary recommendations based on their findings.
• They will use video equipment to get a further look into your flue.

If your chimney has been well-maintained and there have been no significant changes to the system (such as changing fuel types or installing a new appliance), a Level 1 inspection is usually sufficient.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection

A Level 2 inspection is more exhaustive and is required if there has been a change to the system (like converting from wood to gas), if the home is changing ownership, or if an uncontrollable hazardous event (like a chimney fire or an earthquake) has occurred. It includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, as well as the removal of some doors or panels to get a more in-depth look. The technician will also use video equipment to get a closer look internally.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• One of our technicians will inspect all areas covered in a Level 1 inspection.
• They’ll examine areas of the chimney that may not be readily accessible (attics, basements, crawl spaces, etc.).
• They’ll use specialized tools, like a video camera, to inspect the interior of the chimney flue.

Book one of these after big storms or natural disasters, after chimney fires, after any major changes are made to the system, and when buying/selling a home.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection

A Level 3 inspection is the most comprehensive and is only performed when serious issues are suspected – issues that can only be uncovered with an intrusive investigation. This level of inspection involves removing parts of the chimney – or sometimes parts of the surrounding wall – to thoroughly assess potential hazards or structural damage.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

In addition to the steps included in Levels 1 and 2, a Level 3 inspection may require the removal of chimney components like the chimney crown, interior wall panels, or other building materials to gain access to areas that are suspected of having severe damage.

• In addition to the steps included in Levels 1 and 2, our tech may need to remove chimney components (like the chimney crown) to gain full access to affected areas.
• We may need to remove interior wall panels or other building materials around the chimney.

These will only be needed if a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection reveals significant problems that require a more in-depth overview.