Real Estate Chimney Inspections Are a Must When Transferring Property
If you’re buying or selling a home in Lackawanna County or somewhere else in the surrounding area, and you’ve already had your home inspection completed, you’re probably relieved to have one more thing off your to-do list. Unfortunately, when it comes to your chimney, the work isn’t over yet – you’ll still have to schedule a real estate chimney inspection with a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified sweep.
The good news is that we’re here to handle it all and answer any and all of the questions you have along the way. Let’s address a few of the more common ones…
Why Do I Need to Hire a Certified Sweep?
First things first… why is hiring a sweep actually necessary? Well, a home inspector will do a very basic overview of the chimney system, but most don’t have the training necessary to spot any serious issues. If there’s any obvious damage, they’ll likely point it out, but there’s a long list of things they’re not actually required to check or test out (like the flue or vent system, any seals or gaskets, your heat-distribution assists, pilot flames, make-up air devices, and more).
Basically, if you’re looking for a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)-style inspection, you’re not gonna get it. Which can lead to things getting missed and you discovering some major (and costly) issues long after you’ve already moved in.
By hiring a qualified sweep to do an inspection, you can rest easier knowing nothing will be missed and that no hidden, unwelcome surprises will pop up later on down the line.
What Type of Inspection Is Performed?
We offer 3 levels of inspections, so which one is required when buying or selling a home? When performing a real estate chimney inspection, you can count on everything that’s done in a level 2 inspection being completed. This includes:
- examining all readily accessible areas of the interior and exterior of your chimney
- checking the basic soundness of the structure and flue
- ensuring all connections and installations were completed correctly
- verifying the system is free from obstructions and flammable buildup
- a visual inspection with camera equipment to get an in-depth look at all areas of the flue interior
- ensuring all clearances are met
- an inspection of all accessible portions of the interior and exterior of the chimney (attics, crawl spaces, basements, etc.)
What if Major Damages Are Found?
Best case scenario, a level 2 inspection is completed by a chimney tech and no major issues are spotted. But what if problems are uncovered? Well, this is where you can negotiate the price of the cost of the home to cover the repairs, or request to have them addressed before the sale is completed.
Some repair and reconstruction can wind up costing thousands to address, so this is a service well worth investing in before anything is finalized!
Does Your New Home Need a Fireplace?
Are you moving into a home that doesn’t have a fireplace? Well, we can help you out there too. We sell a long list of fireplaces, inserts, and stoves, ranging from wood-burning units to gas appliances, so you’re sure to find the right fit in no time.
We’re Here to Help
Do you still have questions? Whatever they may be, we want to help. Reach out today, and one of our crew members would be happy to talk you through it. Call 570-221-4113 to get started.
Our chimney and fireplace services include chimney cleanings and inspections, so get yours scheduled today.