Chimney Inspections
Chimney safety is among the most important considerations for any homeowner when keeping their home healthy and safe. Inspecting your chimney regularly is an effective means of prevention. It is a simple process and can be infinitely more valuable to you in the long run knowing that your chimney is safe and secure.
The State of Maine Fire Marshal's Office keeps several documents which recommend regular inspections of any wood-burning chimney that is used regularly throughout the cold months of Maine. If you have not received a chimney inspection and are unsure of the condition of your chimney, an inspection will give you a thorough understanding of the condition that your chimney is in, any potential dangers it poses, and recommended services to improve the safety and efficiency of your chimney.
Maine's fire safety code utilizes three levels of chimney inspection which can be carried out by a certified chimney inspector. A level 1 inspection verifies that the chimney is structurally sound and free of residues or combustibles. A level two inspection is required whenever a new home heating appliance is added to a home or an appliance is changed out or exchanged for another. In a level 2 inspection, the inspector also verifies the safety of attics, basements, confined spaces, and other important areas of the house that can be potentially affected by the heating unit. A level 3 inspection is carried out when the structural integrity of a fireplace or chimney cannot be completely determined by a level 2 inspection. Level 3 inspections involve access to hidden areas that may be obstructed by other building elements in the home. Level 3 inspections generally only take place after a chimney has been damaged or there is evidence of danger resulting from the chimney.
It is always best to be on the safe side, particularly when people depend on the integrity of your home to keep them warm, safe and secure through the Maine winter. If the time is right for you to receive a chimney inspection, contact us to set up an appointment with a certified chimney inspector. We will conduct a thorough inspection of your chimney and help you make informed decisions about keeping your chimney safe and clean into the future.









