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Types of Inspections
Real Estate Inspection
For real estate agents, potential buyers or home owners/sellers. Top Hat must have permission from the current home owner to be on the property before setting up an appointment. If you want a comprehensive evaluation of the chimney system prior to closing on a new home, then you’ll need to schedule a real estate inspection. Typically, this type of inspection entails a Level 1 basic inspection. Prices will vary based on the level of inspection required.
Insurance Inspection
Typically, this type of inspection takes place after an event has occurred- ie. chimney fire, lightning strike, etc. and the insurance company needs a quote on repairs to get the home back to pre-loss condition. The Level of inspection needed will be determined based on the circumstances that give rise to the investigation. Prices will vary based on the level of inspection required.
The type and scope of the inspection will be determined based on the circumstances that give rise to the investigation, but you can expect the inspection to include one of the following:
Level 1:
Readily accessible areas of the chimney, structure and flue; lack of obstruction or combustible deposits in the flue; basic appliance installation and connection.
You need a level 1 inspection if your appliance or venting system has not changed and you plan to use your system as you have in the past. Our technician will be looking for basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue, the basic appliance installation and connections and verify the chimney is free of obstructions and combustible deposits.
Level 2:
Includes all subjects of a Level 1 inspection: proper construction and condition of accessible portions of the chimney structure and all enclosed flues; proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations; size and suitability of flues for connected appliances
A level 2 inspection is warranted when changes are made to the system or after an operation malfunction or external event that is likely to have caused damage to the chimney.
Level 3:
All subjects of Level 1 and 2 inspections; proper construction and condition of concealed portions of the chimney structure and enclosed flues; proper clearances from combustibles
A level 3 inspection is warranted when a level 1 or 2 inspection suggests a hidden and serious hazard and will require the removal of certain components of the building or chimney to gain access to areas that are the subject of inspection.
