What gets checked during a chimney inspection? Homeowners often neglect their chimneys. If there is no visible damage on the exterior, many people assume that everything is in good shape. Meanwhile, there could be hidden structural damage, possible obstructions in the chimney cap, and significant buildup of highly flammable creosote in the chimney flue. The only way to really know if your chimney is in need of maintenance is by hiring a professional to conduct a chimney inspection.What gets checked during a chimney inspection? There are three different kinds of chimney inspections as established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Level one – A level one inspection is a general examination of the interior and exterior of the chimney. The inspector will look at the flue liner, the interior walls, the crown, chimney cap, and the joints, in addition to making a general assessment of the chimney structure. In most cases, a level one inspection is all you need. Level 2 – A level 2 inspection includes all of the level one assessments, but it goes a few steps further. The inspector will examine hidden areas, possibly with cameras or other special tools, to see if there are any possible hazards. A level 2 inspection is often required during the sale or transfer of property. Level 3 – A level 3 inspection is highly invasive. It involves dismantling parts of the chimney in order to reveal possibly hidden structural damage. In general, a level 3 inspection is only needed
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