There are 3 Levels to chimney inspections. Mike’s Mobile includes a Level I inspection with every chimney sweep. Here is a breakdown so you can see what happens during each type of inspection.
Level One Chimney Inspection
If your chimney performance, appliance or venting system has not changed and you simply want to be confident in the continued safe use of the system, you will need the Level 1 inspection done on an annual schedule. We usually combine this service with the annual cleaning and sweeping that should be scheduled to guarantee continued safe use of your stove, chimney or furnace.
Our chimney inspection tech will examine the readily accessible portions of the interior and exterior areas of the chimney and the appliance or chimney connection. This includes the firebox, smoke chamber and damper along with the cap and crown on the exterior of your chimney if accessed with cleaning. We will be looking for any chimney structure or flue defect or underperforming areas with the appliance installation or connections. The whole system must be found to be clear of any blockage or deposits that may be combustible.
Level Two Chimney Inspection
A Level 2 inspection is recommended when you have had any changes done to your system. If you have changed fuel type, or had the chimney relined, if you have replaced your furnace or appliance (especially if the rating or efficiency differs from what was there prior). If you recently bought the home and are not familiar with the system performance, plan to do modifications to your chimney, stove or heating system or have had a chimney fire recently a Level 2 inspection is in order.
A Level 2 inspection is an in-depth look at the entire chimney, stove or furnace system. It includes all steps covered with a Level 1 inspection and also includes a visual inspection of all internal surfaces and joints. If necessary, we use a color video inspection camera to look inside the chimney or flue. This allows for a complete top to bottom visual inspection of your system.
A written report is produced that details all areas that may be of concern.
Level Three Chimney Inspection
Level 1 and 2 methods are included with Level 3 inspections, but with this type inspection portions of the structure or chimney will be required to fully investigate the deficiencies that exist. Many areas that are concealed from visual examination may need to be opened up by removing bricks, masonry, metal flue pipes, interior chimney walls, chimney crowns or other components of your system. These inspections are only required when the earlier inspection Level 1 or 2 reveals a serious problem and we need to gain access to the problem areas hidden from view. Level 3 inspections are needed on less than 2% of all inspections when serious problems are suspected that require immediate action.