LEVEL 2 INSPECTION
Confidence Before
You Buy.
A comprehensive fireplace and chimney inspection recommended by NFPA 211 when a property changes ownership, after a chimney fire, or whenever significant changes have been made to the fireplace or venting system..
What is a Level 2 Inspection?
A Level 2 inspection provides a more comprehensive evaluation than a Level 1 inspection. It is intended for situations where the fireplace or chimney system may have changed, where hidden defects are a concern, or where additional documentation is needed.
According to NFPA 211, a Level 2 inspection is recommended when:
A property is being bought or sold
A chimney fire has occurred
A new appliance has been installed
The venting system has been modified
Major repairs have been completed
Damage or performance issues are suspected
In addition to the visual examination performed during a Level 1 inspection, a Level 2 inspection includes an evaluation of accessible areas of the chimney and fireplace system that may require special tools or equipment to inspect safely.
Recommended For
✓ Buying a home
✓ Selling a home
✓ After a chimney fire
✓ After replacing a fireplace or insert
✓ After structural repairs
✓ Following severe weather or earthquake damage
✓ When damage is suspected
Why Level 2 Inspections Matter
Many issues inside a chimney cannot be identified through a standard visual inspection alone. Changes to a home's ownership, previous repairs, or hidden deterioration may require a more comprehensive evaluation to identify conditions that could affect the safe operation of the fireplace and chimney system.
A Level 2 inspection provides the additional information needed to make informed decisions before purchasing a home, completing repairs, or returning a fireplace to service.
Frequently Asked Questions
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When ownership changes, the history of the fireplace and chimney system is often unknown. A Level 2 inspection helps identify conditions that may not be visible during a routine visual inspection.
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Yes. A Level 2 inspection includes all components of a Level 1 inspection while providing a more detailed evaluation of the system where required.
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No. A Level 2 inspection is considered non-destructive. Specialized inspection equipment is used to evaluate accessible portions of the system without opening walls or removing building materials.
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It can identify many conditions that aren't visible during a standard inspection, including cracks, deterioration, obstructions, and defects within accessible portions of the chimney system.
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Yes. NFPA 211 recommends a Level 2 inspection whenever changes are made to the fireplace, chimney, venting system, or connected appliance.
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Some insurance companies may request a Level 2 inspection following a chimney fire or other damage. Requirements vary by insurance provider, so it's always a good idea to check with your carrier.
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We use specialized chimney inspection equipment to evaluate the interior of the flue and document its condition as part of the inspection process.
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If conditions are found that require further investigation beyond the scope of a Level 2 inspection, we will explain our findings and discuss whether a Level 3 inspection, as defined by NFPA 211, is recommended.
Still have questions? We're happy to help. Give us a call or schedule an inspection today.
Note: Inspection recommendations are based on the current edition of NFPA 211 and the condition of the fireplace and chimney system at the time of the inspection. The scope of each inspection may vary depending on accessibility, construction, and site conditions.