What Homeowners and Buyers Should Know from an InterNACHI Home Inspector
Masonry fireplaces and chimneys add charm, warmth, and value to many older homes throughout California. However, these structures often require special attention during home inspections due to their age, accumulated wear, and important safety considerations that develop over time.
Common Issues in Older Masonry Fireplaces and Chimneys
Cracks and Deterioration: Over time, mortar joints may deteriorate, bricks can develop cracks, and masonry can become loose or go missing entirely. These conditions can impair the structural integrity of the chimney system.
Flue Liners: Many older chimneys lack proper liners, or they have liners that are cracked or partially missing. This increases the risks of heat transfer to combustible materials, smoke leaks into living spaces, and potential chimney fires.
Chimney Caps and Spark Arrestors: Missing or damaged chimney caps allow water, debris, or animals to enter the chimney system. Faulty or absent spark arrestors can increase fire hazards, particularly in California’s fire-prone regions.
Clearances: Improper clearance to combustible materials poses a significant fire risk that may not be immediately apparent during casual observation.
Single-Wall Metal Chimneys: These are often unsafe when located inside living areas due to heat transfer concerns and inadequate protection.
Limitations of a General Visual Inspection
As InterNACHI-certified home inspectors, we perform visual, non-invasive inspections in accordance with InterNACHI’s Standards of Practice. Our inspection includes:
- Examining all accessible surfaces for visible cracks, missing mortar, damaged liners, and safety components such as dampers
- Assessing the general condition and configuration of the fireplace and chimney system
What we do not do: We do not dismantle components, use specialized camera equipment, or conduct any form of destructive testing. Our inspection reflects only the conditions that are visible at the time of the inspection and cannot detect hidden defects, internal deterioration, or verify proper venting integrity throughout the entire system.
Why a Level 2 Chimney Inspection is Recommended During Home Sales
The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) specifically recommends a Level 2 inspection conducted by a licensed and insured chimney and fireplace professional during real estate transactions. This more comprehensive inspection includes:
- A detailed examination of all accessible parts of the chimney structure, both interior and exterior
- Use of specialized tools such as video cameras that can be inserted inside the flue to detect hidden cracks, blockages, or deterioration
- Inspection of areas above the roofline, including chimney caps, crowns, and flashing
- Comprehensive documentation of findings along with specific repair recommendations
A Level 2 inspection provides an added layer of safety assurance that goes well beyond what a standard visual inspection can offer, protecting the interests of both buyers and sellers in the transaction.
InterNACHI Inspection Disclaimer
Our chimney and fireplace inspections are limited to visual, non-invasive evaluations as outlined in the InterNACHI Standards of Practice. We do not perform chimney sweeping, video inspections of flue interiors, or code compliance verification. For a complete safety evaluation of your masonry fireplace and chimney system, a specialized Level 2 inspection by a qualified chimney professional is necessary.
Protect your home and family by ensuring your masonry fireplace and chimney are safe and sound. Contact us today to schedule an InterNACHI-certified home inspection and learn why professional chimney inspections are vital during home sales in California.