That's why the National Chimney Safety Institute of America recommendeds you have your chimney checked once a year.

Until recently, the scope of work performed in the inspection of a fireplace or other venting system was generally up to the discretion of the Chimney Sweep. Chimney Sweeps now have an industry standard.

Inspections are now classified as 3 levels. Each level of inspection is dependent on the individual appliance and venting system.

LEVEL 1 Inspection
A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a fireplace/chimney under continued service, under the same conditions.

1. Annual Inspection
2. Routine Cleaning of Flue
3. Direct Replacement of a similar appliance

 

LEVEL 2 Inspection
A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system, upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an accident or external event like damaging weather that has caused damage to the chimney.

1. Upon any sale or transfer of property
2. After an operating malfunction or an external event is likely to have caused damage to the chimney
3. Addition or removal of one or more connected appliances, or the replacement of an appliance with one of a different type, a different input rating or a different efficiency
4. Prior to relining or replacement of the flue lining

LEVEL 3 Inspection
A Level 3 inspection includes all the requirements of a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection as well as the addition of a structural review which may require dismantling the chimney to gain access to the concealed area suspected of being unsafe.

1. Where necessary for the investigation of an incident which has caused damage to the chimney or building
2. Where a hazard is detected or suspected as the result of a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection and the suspected hazard cannot be fully evaluated without access to concealed areas
3. A Level 3 inspection may be required when the construction of all or part of the chimney is deemed critical to the renewed or continued use of the chimney due to potential concealed defects