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Fireplaces are not checked for actual function in burning gas or solid fuels. Gas shutoff valves for gas fireplaces are not tested (click here for helpful information concerning gas shutoff valves).
Fireplaces and chimneys should be inspected on an annual basis and more often depending on usage. Inspection of the fireplace is limited to visible and accessible sections only. The inner reaches of the flue or chimney throat are relatively inaccessible, so the view from the fireplace or chimney is not adequate to discover possible deficiencies or damage, even with a strong light. Inspectors do not remove rain caps and spark arrestors on the chimney top to look inside the chimney flue. The National Fire Protection Association, the Chimney Safety Institute of America, and Rook Home Inspections LLC recommend that all fireplaces and chimneys receive a “Level II” inspection whenever real estate is sold or transferred. From the Chimney Safety Institute of America: |
Level II Inspection
The addition of a new home heating appliance or a change in the type of fuel a homeowner is burning requires a Level II inspection. This inspection level is also required upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operating malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. The scope of a Level II inspection includes that of the Level I inspection plus the inspection of accessible portions of the attics, crawl spaces and basements. It may also include a performance test such as a smoke test or a pressure test and possibly an interior chimney video inspection if recommended by the certified chimney sweep. Click here for helpful information on the other inspection levels of the Chimney Safety Institute of America. You can use the web site of the Chimney Safety Institute of America to find a qualified chimney professional. Prefabricated fireplaces are usually built for use with natural gas. Although some manufacturers do build fireplaces for use with solid fuel, we can only verify approval for use with solid fuel if the manufacturer’s installation instructions, approval statement, or use guidelines state such approval. We are aware that many residents do burn solid fuel in their fireplaces. |
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