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Attention All Real Estate Professionals:

Chimney Inspections as regards to a Home Sale

In todays market, real estate agents call in Home Inspectors as a matter or course.  But when it comes to chimneys how much of an inspection is enough?  Home Inspectors, as diligent as they are, can only perform a Level I inspection or what is known as a courtesy inspection.  They are looking at the exterior of the chimney for any obvious signs of cracks or a ground view of the chimney for the presence of a rain cap.  They may briefly shine a flashlight into the firebox to take a peek at the flue.  They may recommend a cleaning or sweep if it is very dirty.  There lies the problem.  A Home Inspector is not qualified or authorized to conduct a Level II inspection for a home sale. 

A Certified Chimney Inspector can perform a Level II inspection

Misconceptions can arise when scheduling a home inspection.  Not to fault the Home Inspector, but a Level II inspection requires that a Certified Chimney Inspector be called in.  Of course a Level II inspection includes all aspects of a Level I inspection with the following points added:

1. Has the chimney been constructed properly?
2. All accessible portions of the chimney are inspected including all enclosed flues.
3. Does the chimney show proper clearance from combustibles in accessible locations?
4. All accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior are inspected including areas with accessible attics, crawl spaces and basements.
5. Shall include video scanning or other means of inspection.

 So, if you are still unsure of calling in a professional let the National Fire Protection Association answer it for you: 

Is the “naked eye” enough to protect your client?

As it concerns the Real Estate Industry, the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 211 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances answers the above questions. NFPA 211’s code 11-5.1.1 states that a Level II inspection should be performed: “Upon sale or transfer of the property or after a major event such as an earthquake.” Copies of this booklet may be obtained at www.nfpa.org.)

Hearth Aches Chimney Service also strongly recommends that a chimney inspection be performed during every real estate transaction!

In this litigious society you need to be proactive in protecting your clients financial interests.  As a respected and trusted realtor you need to keep the safety of your clients and their investment close in mind.  By having a proper chimney inspection you will have no guilt or liability.  Don't let that inspection period run its course without a professional inspection.  Knowledge is power.  Armed with the correct condition of a chimney you can avoid future costly repairs and bring negotiating power to the table.  Know your options before you submit an offer on the home.  

 

Open Letter from Rick Hensley to all Real Estate Agents

Have you ever had a seller or prospective buyer question or dispute an inspection report on a chimney, putting you and the other agent in an awkward position, not to mention a delay - or possible blow-up of your sale? Don't let that happen to you.  Call us today and we will set an appointment to come out and run interference for you.  We will provide you and your client with a competent and through evaluation of the situation.  In case there is actual damage we will give you a competitive repair estimate without delay. Our goal is to provide all concerned with the safest, most economical repair available without compromising our own high code of ethics and personal integrity.  

We are a family-owned fireplace and chimney service that has had extensive experience specializing in trouble shooting problem chimneys. We have completed thousands of permitted  repairs on fireplaces and chimneys.  I have twice been featured in "The Best of LA" and have worked with the historical society restoring chimneys in the Pasadena, Los Feliz, and Hancock Park areas of Los Angeles.  I know there  can be more than one way to repair a substandard chimney to meet local  building and safety code requirements.   Get that second opinion today and you will see why you will choose Hearth Aches as your first choice in chimney inspections!