A fireplace is one of the most desirable features of a listed home. Homes with fireplaces—no matter what the fuel type—often have higher values and sell faster than other homes on the market. Homeowners often purchase a house specifically for the luxury and convenience of a fireplace, however many don’t know what they’re getting into when they make their purchase! This is because standard home inspections do not focus on the chimney, and are not completed by a trained and experienced chimney professional. Only certified chimney sweeps know exactly what to look for to inspect a chimney, whether it’s been well-maintained or neglected. Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service inspects chimneys for new homebuyers.
Real Estate Inspections
CSIA Chimney inspections should be completed annually no matter how often the fireplace is used or what type of fuel is burned. A level two inspection is required when a home or property is sold or transferred, and necessarily so. Often when a seller is planning to sell, they may neglect chimney appointments since the buyer will be able to schedule their own home inspections. Just make sure a chimney inspection is also scheduled before closing day! Talk with your realtor or mortgage lender about where the chimney inspection should fall in the process because a home sale occurs on a very rigid timeline. Once you miss the opportunity for the inspection, you cannot schedule this service until after you take ownership of the property.
Video Inspections for Homebuyers
At Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service, our chimney inspections include a video scan of the chimney interior—the most hidden portion of the entire system. While a home inspector may report on the soundness of the chimney structure and maybe the presence of a crown, he is not trained in chimney science or in spotting damage. Using our CCTV equipment we are able to view any damage to the mortar or cracks in the lining and blockages, all of which can be extremely dangerous if you use your fireplace before repairs can be made.
Informed Consumers
A home is not something you can return if it isn’t working properly or needs a major repair. Consumers in America have every opportunity to make informed purchases, but not all purchases can end in disaster as a damaged chimney can. Having your new home inspected may give you peace of mind, but having your chimney inspected may save you money. Your homeowners’ insurance provider may offer discounted rates for systems inspected by a CSIA certified chimney sweep.
Before you use your new fireplace in your new home, call the company that specializes in real estate chimney inspections. We give the system a complete assessment and detailed report, including photographs and necessary video footage. When we complete the job your chimney will have a clean bill of health or a detailed repair plan to bring your chimney system into code compliance and safety.
