A Chimney Inspection is a Must When Buying or Selling A Home

Would you buy or sell a home that hasn’t been properly inspected for potential problems like mold formation or a leaky roof? We’re hoping your answer is no. Before signing the dotted line and sealing the deal, we hope you’d also consider getting the fireplace and chimney inspected by a professional chimney sweep to avoid possible hidden flaws and costly repairs.

Although chimney and fireplace inspections slide under the radar, it is an important step in the buying and selling process. As both a buyer and a seller, you want to rule out the possibility of chimney/fireplace issues as it can affect the negotiating process and help you avoid future claims. According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors, 40% of home buyers said they would spend the extra money on a home with a fireplace. Therefore, it’s important to hire a certified chimney sweep to perform a thorough, well-documented inspection to make sure you are buying or selling a home with a well-maintained chimney and fireplace.

What’s Involved in a Chimney and Fireplace Inspection for New Homes?

During a chimney and fireplace inspection, inspectors take a look at fuel-burning fireplaces, stoves, fireplace inserts, chimneys, and the like. They aim to detect problems with venting systems.

At Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration, we perform 3 different types of chimney inspections: NFPA Level 1, NFPA Level 2, and NFPA Level 3. NFPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association, and we conduct regular inspections following NFPA guidelines and procedures. If you are buying or selling a property with a fireplace, a Level 2 chimney inspection is mandatory.

A NFPA Level 2 Chimney inspection is a little bit more involved than a NFPA Level 1. It requires a visual inspection of the inside and outside of the fireplace/chimney; or places that are otherwise hidden from view. Whereas during NFPA Level 1 inspections, we focus only on parts of the fireplace and chimney that are readily available and visible. Level 2 inspections may also call for access to attics and basements and don’t include the dismantling or destruction of parts, like a Level 3 inspection would.

After we complete a Level 2 inspection, Valley Chimney Sweep & Restoration will provide you with written reports of our findings and recommendations. People often assume a standard home inspection includes a thorough inspection of the chimney and fireplace. However, not all chimney inspections are performed properly, and you may end up spending money on repairs and rebuilds down the road.

If you’re either on the hunt for a new home or are thinking of selling your property in the Western suburbs of Chicago, Contact us today to set up an appointment for a NFPA Level 2 chimney inspection!