Chimney Inspection Checklist
October 19, 2014 in Chimney Inspection Checklist
Here is a strong checklist that covers the topics listed in the NFPA 211. You can ask your chimney sweep to see their chimney inspection report when they are quoting the work, so you are satisfied with your service.
Compare
this list against the inspection
report provided by your
professional chimney sweep to
make sure they are providing a
comprehensive service and do a
complete job in accordance to
the NFPA’s criteria. It
must be understood that the type
of chimney and heating appliance
that you have will demand
specific criteria, clearances
and safety codes that cannot all
be entered into one inspection
checklist. This list is
not the end all be all of
chimney inspections, as there
are many factors that go into
chimney fire prevention.
However, we can cover most of
the important safety factors and
if you find that there is an
item on this list that is not on
your professional chimney
sweep’s final inspection report,
you should review the item with
them to make sure your chimney
is safe for use.
- Creosote and heavy soot removed
- Chimney, fireplace (and woodstove if applicable) are completely clean
- Dryer vent is clear of lint
- Check for movement in chimney; displaced bricks, cracked metal, etc.
- Check for damaged or clogged chimney flues
- Check for chimney cap, crown and flashing defects
- Properly functioning chimney cleanout doors and damper
- Check for cracks, rust, and water damage on all chimney parts, fireplaces and heating appliances
- Check chimney liner is present and not damaged in any way
- Fireplace, chimney, or heating appliance has proper clearance to combustibles
- Check regulation sizing for proper drafting
- Check venting system for proper airflow
- Review proper use with homeowner, especially for prefabricated units
- Woodstove or Fireplace insert installation, pipe condition, proper flue connection
