So, you tidy up your house and throw out the broken furniture you always hated anyway. You’re getting ready to sell your house and buy another. The professional real estate agent says you need an inspection to protect both seller and buyer from potential risks and liabilities. You enlist the services of an inspector who assesses the condition of the structure, the basement, the roof, the driveway. So far so good. But when it comes to the chimney the inspector sheepishly admits his or her ignorance regarding chimney matters. What should you do?
Old Smokey’s has seen this sort of predicament. Actually, let us first say you should be grateful when an inspector admits his or her shortcomings when it comes to chimney knowledge. That’s better than Inspector Pretender, who may miss potential problems that might turn out to be serious.
Quite simply, a professional chimney inspection is in everybody’s best interests. It makes as much sense as consulting a structural engineer if the house’s foundation showed troubling evidence of instability. Or, to make another analogy, it’s like having an HVAC professional or licensed electrician review any issues regarding their respective disciplines. Employing a specialty professional is good common sense.
A Level 2 inspection is typically required upon the transfer or sale of a home. For that, we recommend you employ one of Old Smokey’s Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified chimney sweeps. We are adept at detecting chimney issues or problems that a home inspector might miss.
Here’s a closer look at what a Level 2 chimney inspection entails. According to the CSIA, “A Level 2 inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a Level 1 inspection…. A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.”
The CSIA goes on to note, “A Level 2 inspection shall also include a visual inspection by video scanning or other means in order to examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required by a Level 2 inspection.”
However it is defined, a chimney inspection done by an Old Smokey’s trained professional is a wise investment — if not a necessity. It offers a good opportunity for a solid return on your investment. Good information is a great starting point to assist you in your real estate buying or selling decision making.
Depend on experienced and smart professionals. We’ve been at it for more than 30 years now, building on our enviable reputation. Book an appointment by calling 260-424-0009 or schedule your chimney inspection online. Let Old Smokey’s help you keep your real estate transaction real.