Level 2 Chimney Inspection: What It Is and When a Dallas Home Needs One
A level 2 chimney inspection is a level 1 inspection plus a video scan of the whole flue and a look at the attic and crawl space around the chimney. You need one when a home is sold, after a chimney fire and after any change to the system.
If you are buying or selling a house with a fireplace, someone will tell you to get a level 2 chimney inspection. Here is what that means in plain words.
A level 2 chimney inspection is a level 1 inspection plus a video scan of the entire flue and a check of the areas around the chimney, such as the attic and crawl space. It is the level of inspection called for when a home changes hands, after a chimney fire, and whenever something about the system changes.
The Three Levels of Chimney Inspection
The National Fire Protection Association outlines three levels of chimney inspection in its standard, NFPA 211. A certified chimney service technician picks the level based on the situation.
Level 1 chimney inspection
A visual inspection of the readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, and of the fireplace or appliance. The technician checks that the chimney structure and flue are sound and that the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits such as creosote.
A level 1 inspection is right when you use the same fireplace the same way you always have, and nothing has changed.
Level 2 chimney inspection
A level 2 inspection includes everything in level 1 and adds:
- A video scan of the inside of the flue, top to bottom
- A check of all accessible portions of the chimney, including the attic, crawl spaces and basement
- A check of clearances between the chimney and anything that can burn
No demolition is involved. Nothing is removed from the building.
Level 3 chimney inspection
A level 3 inspection involves removing parts of the chimney or building structure to reach a hidden problem. It is only warranted when a level 1 or level 2 inspection points to a serious hazard that cannot be checked any other way.
When You Need a Level 2 Chimney Inspection
A level 2 inspection is required:
- When a property is sold or transferred
- After a chimney fire, even a small one
- After an event that may have damaged the chimney, such as a lightning strike, a tornado, a house fire or foundation movement
- When you change the system: adding gas logs or an insert, switching fuel, or having the flue relined
- When a level 1 inspection finds a problem that needs a closer look
Why Home Buyers in Dallas Should Not Skip It
A general home inspection covers the fireplace in a few lines. The inspector looks at the firebox and the outside of the chimney, and often writes “recommend evaluation by a chimney specialist.” Home inspectors do not run a camera up the flue.
That matters, because the expensive problems are inside:
- Cracked flue tiles. Common in Dallas, where clay soil shifts and the house moves. A cracked liner means the fireplace is not safe to use until it is repaired or relined.
- Missing mortar between tiles. Gaps let heat and gases reach the framing.
- A past chimney fire. Many go unnoticed by the people living in the house. The camera shows the damage.
- A prefab fireplace past its service life. Cracked panels, a rusted firebox or a damaged metal flue.
- Water damage. Rust and stains in the smoke chamber from a missing chimney cap or cracked chimney crown.
In Texas, you have an option period to inspect the home and negotiate. A level 2 inspection report with photos and a written repair price gives you something concrete to bring to the seller. Without it, you may find out about a cracked liner the first winter, when it is your bill.
Why Sellers Benefit Too
If you are selling, an inspection before you list lets you fix problems on your own schedule and at your own price. It also takes one surprise out of the buyer’s option period.
What Our Level 2 Inspection Includes
At Dallas Chimney Care, a level 2 inspection covers:
- The firebox, damper and smoke chamber
- A full video scan of the flue liner
- The attic and other accessible areas around the chimney
- The chimney exterior, cap, crown and flashing from the roof
- A photo report you can share with your agent
- A written price for any chimney repair we recommend
We offer same-day and next-day appointments so the inspection fits inside your option period. Read more about our chimney inspection in Dallas, or see what a chimney sweep includes if the flue also needs cleaning.
Why Dallas Homeowners Trust Dallas Chimney Care
Dallas Chimney Care is an owner-led chimney and fireplace company based in Preston Center. The advice on this blog comes from the same people who do the work on Dallas roofs and fireplaces.
- Owner with 20 years as a chimney technician
- Certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
- Insured, with a written price before any work starts
- 5-Year Workmanship Warranty on our work
- A small local Dallas business, not a big chain
Read more about our chimney services in Dallas or about our team.
