Level 1 vs Level 2 Chimney Inspection: What's the Difference?
Level 1 Inspection
The standard annual inspection. We visually examine readily accessible parts of the chimney, exterior, interior, accessible portions of the flue. Best for chimneys in continued service under the same conditions.
Level 2 Inspection
Required when something changes: property sale, fuel type change, new appliance installation, or after a chimney fire, earthquake, or weather event. Includes everything in Level 1 plus a video scan of the entire flue and inspection of accessible attic and crawl space sections.
Level 3 Inspection
Reserved for serious situations where damage is suspected but hidden. May involve removing portions of the chimney or building structure to access concealed areas. Only performed when Level 1 or 2 reveals (or strongly suggests) hidden damage.
Which Do You Need?
If you're scheduling a routine annual inspection, Level 1. If you're buying or selling, just had a chimney fire, or are switching from wood to gas, Level 2. Level 3 is only ordered when an inspector recommends it.
Level 1 is your annual baseline; Level 2 is required for property transfers or major changes; Level 3 is for serious damage assessment.