WHAT IS AN NFPA LEVEL I & II INSPECTION
There are three levels of an NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) chimney inspection. Here, I will only discuss the first two levels, because this is what will be of importance to you as a home owner or purchaser. Chapter and verse from the standard will not be quoted. Some paragraphs will not be included so as not to confuse you. I just want you to understand the two levels of inspection so you have a basic knowledge of the procedure. Absolute Home Inspections of New Jersey is certified to perform the following inspections. A Level I inspection is always part of my home inspection service. If you desire a Level II inspection during your home inspection an extra fee applies. A level II inspection includes the use of a video camera and is strongly recommended.
The basic inspection is called a Level I and is required when verification of the suitability of the chimney or flue for continued service, under the same conditions and with the same or similar appliance or appliances. A level I inspection shall be conducted under the following circumstances:
During annual inspections.
During routine cleaning of a flue or flues within the chimney.
At the time of replacement of one or more connected appliances with an equal number of appliances of similar type, input rating and efficiency.
Level I inspections shall include examination of readily accessible portions of the chimney and accessible portions of the connected appliance and chimney connection. The chimney exterior and surroundings shall be inspected at locations that can be accessed without removal of panels, doors or coverings. Where panels, doors or coverings are opened as part of performance of another task, such as chimney cleaning, such locations shall be examined.
Readily accessible areas of the chimney flue that can be observed through existing openings, such as a thimble, cleanout opening or flue termination, shall be examined for the presence of a continuous flue liner, proper installation and no damage or deterioration.
The inspection shall include verification that the flue or flues being inspected are free of combustible deposits and blockage or obstructions.
The connected appliance or appliances, their chimney connectors and surroundings shall be examined for proper clearance to combustible material, floor mounting and protection, damage or deterioration and observable evidence of operating malfunction.
Chimney connectors shall be examined for proper support and fastening of joints, pitch and securement to the chimney. Connectors shall be examined for damage, deterioration, internal blockage or obstruction and freedom from combustible deposits.
Internal surfaces of fireplaces and smoke chambers shall be examined for damage and deterioration, combustible deposits and evidence of an operating malfunction.
The means of connecting a fireplace insert or stove to the chimney flue shall be examined for compliance.
A Level II inspection is required when verification of the suitability of the chimney for new or changed conditions of service is needed or when a Level I inspection is not sufficient to determine the serviceability of the chimney. A Level II inspection shall be conducted under the following circumstances:
Upon the addition or removal of one or more connected appliances or upon replacement of an appliance with one or more of dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency, unless the last connected appliance is removed and chimney use will be discontinued.
Prior to relining of a flue or replacement of flue lining.
Upon the sale or transfer of the property.
After a building or chimney fire, weather or seismic event or other incident likely to have caused damage to the chimney.
A Level II inspection shall include all subjects of a Level I inspection. Proper construction and condition of accessible portions of the chimney structure and all enclosed flues. Proper clearance from combustibles in accessible locations. Size and suitability of flues for connected appliances.
Shall include all accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, including areas within accessible attics, crawl spaces and basements and accessible portions of the appliance and chimney connection that can be assessed without the removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure.
The inspection shall include examination of accessible areas of all chimney flues and the internal surfaces of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. Video scanning equipment or other means of inspection shall be used to observe these areas.
A Level II inspection is required when verification of the suitability of the chimney for new or changed conditions of service is needed, or when a Level I inspection is not sufficient to determine the serviceability of the chimney.
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