CSIA Chimney Inspection Guidelines

The Chimney Institute of America (CSIA) has developed guidelines for three levels of chimney inspection. Armstrong Duct & Vent provides all three levels of chimney inspection.

Level 1 – All chimney sweeping includes a Level 1 Inspection:

If your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past, a Level 1 inspection is a minimum requirement. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service, under the same conditions, and with the continued use of the same appliance.

In a Level 1 inspection, your chimney service technician should examine the readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior, interior, and chimney connection. Your technician will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue, as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. The technician will also verify the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.  All flues should have at least a Level 1 inspection annually.

Level 2 – Real-estate transactions and insurance claims typically need a Level 2 Inspection:
A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in the fuel type; changes to the shape of, or material in, the flue (i.e. relining); or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating, or efficiency. Additionally, a Level 2 inspection is recommended upon the sale or transfer of a property or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney.

Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events, and weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted.  A Level 2 inspection includes everything in a Level 1 inspection, plus the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, including attics, crawl spaces, and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.

When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 inspection is recommended.

Level 3 – Not commonly done as this will damage the chimney:
A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of components (e.g., chimney crown, interior chimney wall) shall be required only when necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection. When serious hazards are suspected, a Level 3 inspection may be required to determine the condition of the chimney system. A Level 3 inspection addresses the proper construction and the condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and the flue. Removal or destruction, as necessary, of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure will be required for the completion of a Level 3 inspection.