We Offer 3 Levels of Chimney & Fireplace Inspections for Killeen & Temple Home & Business Owners

Did you know there are levels of chimney inspections? It makes sense. Chimneys aren’t used the same way every year or in every context, and your business needs or home situation may change too. If you’re looking for a fireplace and chimney inspection in Killeen, Temple, or the larger surrounding area, our top-notch techs offer three distinct levels of service to cater to varying needs.

Routine check-up? More detailed assessment for maintenance purposes? An in-depth inspection prior to a property transaction? We’ll help you understand the right choice for your needs, offering thoroughness, professionalism, and hometown personalization at every level.

Let’s get started – call, text, or book online today.

What Are the 3 Levels of Chimney Inspections?

There’s a level of chimney inspection to meet every homeowner’s needs. We’d be happy to help you get a sense of what’s necessary for your home when you contact us to set up your appointment, but here’s a basic run-down:

Level 1 Chimney Inspection

The  National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a Level 1 inspection if you have been using your chimney the same way, under the same circumstances, with the same appliance since your last inspection. Every time our technicians are called to clean your chimney, they will first conduct a Level I inspection to determine if your chimney does, in fact, need to be swept.

What does “accessible or “readily accessible” mean?

• Readily accessible means that the component is exposed or can easily be exposed for inspection and maintenance without the use of tools. Examples include the crown of the chimney, the fireback, etc.
• Accessible means that access may require the use of tools to remove doors or coverings. Examples include video inspection and gaining attic access.

Level 2 Chimney Inspection

Whenever a home is sold or transferred or any changes are made to the chimney and fireplace system (to include: major weather events, chimney fires, relining, changing fuel types, replacing appliances, etc.), the NFPA recommends a Level 2 inspection. And yes – even new houses need these! Last year, we inspected one chimney in a fairly new house. The chimney didn’t need swept, but we noticed that the chimney wasn’t connected…and it was venting into the attic. It caused a lot of smoke damage and burned part of the chase.

A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus a video scan of your chimney flue to ensure there are no cracks or gaps in the flue. Additionally, the accessible parts of your chimney exterior and the attic will be inspected to ensure proper clearances from combustible materials.

At the end of the inspection, we’ll go over the results and findings, recommend any necessary repairs or schedule your next inspection date, and provide you with a written report of our findings.

Level 3 Chimney Inspection

When a Level 1 or 2 inspection indicates a deeper problem that requires access to hidden areas of the chimney system, the NFPA requires a Level 3 inspection.

A Level 3 inspection focuses on the proper construction and condition of the hidden areas of the chimney structure and flue. It will likely be necessary to remove parts of the chimney or surrounding wall to complete this inspection. These are definitely more invasive, but they are also far less common than level 1 or 2 inspections.

By offering three levels of chimney service, we’re able to help you keep things operating well using appropriate measures. Just like a doctor wouldn’t just stick a bandaid on a major wound or perform an operation on a measly stubbed toe, responding the right way will help keep your fireplace and chimney system healthy.

How Do Home Chimney Inspections Differ From Business Chimney Inspections?

First, let us assure you that we serve each property owner with the utmost in care and professionalism. The basic procedure will be similar, whether we’re performing an inspection in a home or business setting, but specifics may differ with the different needs presented.

For example, a business may require more frequent inspections, or require a level 2 or 3 inspection more often, due to heavier usage. Different regulatory and documentation requirements may also apply to a business.

Here are a few ways to think about it:

Scope

Of course, inspections will be thorough for every client…but because of the complexity that can be involved in commercial settings, like restaurants or hotels, inspections may need to tick more boxes. Inspections of chimneys in residential homes focus on safety and functionality, structural integrity, cleanliness, and compliance with local business codes. Chimney systems in businesses may have larger, more intricate systems that are used more intensively.

Our technicians will still evaluate system safety and soundness, but also compliance with specific industry standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Regulations

As mentioned above, businesses may have to meet stricter requirements due to high levels of occupancy and usage. Home chimney inspections are driven by homeowner concerns, insurance requirements, or real estate transactions. We are mindful of local building codes, but the regulations are often less stringent – though our level of care in service is not!

Frequency

The NFPA recommends annual inspections for home chimney systems, unless there are signs of malfunction or deterioration that demand extra attention or you use your chimney system at a higher-than-average level.

Chimney maintenance for the homeowner will focus on preventing fire hazards and ensuring efficiency. Commercial chimney inspections may be required more frequently, depending on type of business and usage and for regulatory and insurance compliance. In either case, regular inspections and maintenance are critical to stay safe, maintain efficiency, and avoid interruptions in use of the chimney.

Whether at home or in a commercial setting, we aim to keep you safe and afford you the pleasure of all the comfort and ambiance a well-maintained fireplace (or other chimney-reliant appliance) can provide. Need to schedule your next service? Call or book online now.

When Are Level 2 Chimney Inspections Required?

Some situations call for more detailed assessment that is needed for the regular usage patterns necessitated by a level 1 inspection.

• Property transactions. When a home is changing hands, a level two inspection is needed to get a thorough assessment of the chimney’s condition. This helps the real estate transaction occur more transparently and grants the ability to understand any existing issues, negotiate repairs, or make other adjustments accordingly.
• Significant events. If you’ve had a serious, potentially damaging weather event such as a severe storm or tornado, or if you have had a chimney fire, a level 2 inspection will help you gain an accurate sense of any structural damage that may have occurred – so you can address it and keep your home and family safer.
• System changes. Have you modified your chimney system? Maybe you’ve had a fuel type conversion, installed a new appliance, or had your chimney relined? If so, a level 2 inspection will ensure that things are running as they should.
• Regular maintenance. Yes, level 1 inspections are geared for regular maintenance. But some homeowners opt for a level 2 inspection as part of their regular maintenance schedule. Maybe you’ve lived in the same home for some time and haven’t had a level 2 inspection since you purchased the home, or maybe you have some concerns about your chimney’s condition. In this case, a level 2 inspection may be in order even if you haven’t experienced any of the changes mentioned above.
• Signs of trouble. If a level 1 inspection has turned up something that requires more investigation, a level 2 inspection becomes necessary to obtain a more comprehensive evaluation.

All in all, when needed, a level 2 chimney inspection provides a deeper look into the chimney’s condition. While the specifics may be different, the overarching goal remains the same – keeping you safer and your chimney system in optimal working condition. After any inspection, we’ll go over the results with you and make thoughtful, well-informed recommendations to help you meet these goals.

When Do I Require a Level 3 Chimney Inspection?

If a level 1 or 2 chimney inspection unearths specific concerns that warrant more invasive measures to understand and address, it’s time for a level 3 inspection. Safety is paramount, so if severe structural damage or other concerning signs are evident, accessing more difficult-to-reach areas of your chimney system via a level 3 inspection will be needed.

Book Your Next Chimney Inspection With Us

At Ables Top Hat Home Services, we’re committed to offering meticulous chimney inspections at every level. We prioritize the person and believe in honest, quality work – and that belief has shown itself through the generations of our family-owned business.

Whether you’re buying a home, have experienced a potentially damaging weather event, or simply need a routine inspection, our professional services are only a phone call or text away.