Gather history early
Ask the seller for appliance manuals, prior inspection reports, cleaning invoices, repair photos, permits where relevant and any history of smoke, leaks or chimney fires. A general home inspection may flag visible issues without examining the full vent system.
CSIA's inspection guidance describes a Level 2 inspection for a property sale or transfer. Discuss the appropriate scope with a qualified inspector and allow time to review the written report before decisions are final.
Walk through the report
Confirm which appliances and flues were inspected, whether a camera scan was performed, which areas were inaccessible and whether any further work is recommended. Ask for clear photographs of significant findings. A fireplace that looks clean from the room can still have hidden defects.
If a repair quote is offered, separate the inspection finding from the proposed method and compare the written scope with another qualified opinion for major work.
Before the first fire
Do not use an unfamiliar or long-idle appliance until it has been assessed. Confirm smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to local guidance and manufacturer instructions. Record the appliance model and keep the inspection file where the next owner can find it.
Put the guide to work
Give each chimney company the same description and ask for a written scope. Compare providers by location and recorded services.
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