Three Levels of Chimney Inspections

Level 1

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

A Level 2 inspection is required whenever changes are made to the system. This includes a change in fuel type, modifications to the flue such as relining or material changes, or the replacement or addition of an appliance with a different type, input rating, or efficiency. A Level 2 inspection is also required upon the sale or transfer of a property, or after a malfunction or external event that could have caused chimney damage. Examples of such events include building fires, chimney fires, earthquakes, or severe weather.

Unlike Level 3 inspections, Level 2 inspections do not require specialty tools such as demolition equipment. Doors, panels, and coverings may be opened as needed, but permanent parts of the chimney or building structure are not removed. A Level 2 inspection does, however, require a video scan or similar method to closely examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners within the chimney.

If a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection reveals a possible hidden hazard that cannot be fully evaluated without accessing concealed areas, then a Level 3 inspection is recommended. A Level 3 inspection addresses the construction and condition of concealed chimney and flue sections, and may require removing or opening parts of the chimney or building. In short, a Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus evaluation of accessible areas such as attics, crawl spaces, and basements. It also ensures proper clearances from combustibles in all accessible locations.

Level 3

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.

* Accessible: May require the use of commonly available tools to remove doors, panels or coverings, but will not damage the chimney or building structure or finish.

** Readily Accessible: Exposed, or capable of being exposed, for operation, inspection, maintenance or repair without the use of tools to open or remove doors, panels or coverings.