Homeowner service scope
Level 1 Chimney Inspection
A Level 1 inspection is commonly discussed when the system is expected to continue under the same conditions. Ask the professional to define “readily accessible” for your property and list any areas that could not be observed.
When it may be relevant
Reasons to discuss this service
- The system and fuel have not changed.
- There is no known chimney fire or major adverse event.
- The visit is part of routine maintenance.
- No concealed problem is suspected from current evidence.
These are conversation starters, not a remote diagnosis. The same observation may support a different service once the appliance, venting system and site conditions are examined.
Written scope
What a clear proposal should address
- 1
Review readily accessible appliance and chimney portions.
- 2
Look for basic soundness, deposits and obstruction within the scope.
- 3
Record the system’s current use and visible condition.
- 4
Identify when a broader inspection may be justified.
Before hiring
Questions for the chimney professional
- Which areas are considered readily accessible here?
- Does the visit include cleaning or only inspection?
- What finding would lead to a Level 2 recommendation?
- How will limitations be documented?
Also verify current insurance, applicable licensing or registration, relevant training, permits and warranty terms directly. A directory profile is not verification.
Level 1 does not include the broader accessible spaces and flue video scanning generally associated with Level 2.
For an active fire, carbon-monoxide alarm, rapidly filling smoke or immediate danger, leave the building and contact emergency services.