The Three Levels of Inspection The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)’s 211 (Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances) is the standard upon which CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps base their services. This new standard now classifies chimney and venting system inspections into three levels—Level I, Level II or Level III. Each level of inspection has a specific scope of work and specific criteria. Level I Inspection This inspection is the recommended level when the conditions of use are not changing and includes all readily accessible portions of the venting system. In general, this is the level of inspection performed in most homes during a chimney sweep on a routine or annual evaluation. Level II Inspection The addition of a new home heating appliance or a change in the type of fuel  a homeowner is burning requires a Level II inspection. This inspection level is also required upon the sale or transfer of a property, or after an operating malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney. The scope of a Level II inspection includes that of the Level I inspection plus the inspection of accessible portions of the attics, crawl spaces and basements. It may also include an interior chimney video inspection if recommended by the certified chimney sweep. Level III Inspection A Level III inspection is the most detailed of all the inspection types and includes inspection of concealed areas of the building reasonably suspected of containing hazards that cannot be evaluated otherwise. This type of inspection confirms the proper construction and condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure. Level III inspections are generally necessary when investigating an incident that has caused damage to a chimney or building, or where a hazard is detected and suspected. Both the Chimney Safety Institute of America and the National Fire Protection Association recommend that all chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected annually. In addition to this requirement, there are other times when chimney and venting systems should be inspected, such as: After any unusual or sudden occurrence event, such as a chimney fire, lightning strike, or earthquake. Prior to purchasing a home. Whenever changes are made to a chimney or vent system, including replacement of connected appliances. Prior to major system repairs. Summary: You should be aware that even the most complete evaluation may not reveal all problems. Some areas of the chimney are not accessible due to construction of the house. Be sure to discuss any specific concerns you  might have with the technician. The inspection technique will often be varied to address your particular concern. We will perform an appropriate level of inspection based upon the use of the chimney and any performance or safety concerns using the NFPA 211 as our standard.