Many people like snuggling up to a cozy fire on a winter day. However, proper use of fire/spark screens and regular flue cleaning is important for a family's safety.  Also, leaving a window slightly ajar when using the fireplace will usually provide better drafting.

A visual inspection will evaluate the existing condition and serviceability of the following points:

CHIMNEY: 

• Placement: front, side etc.

• Type: brick, concrete block, stone, metal, direct vent etc.

• Observations: deteriorated mortar, cracking, settling, separation, loose bricks, efflorescence, damaged cap, wall seals, unlined flue, corrosion, no rain caps, damaged shoulder.

FIREPLACE: 

• Placement: living room, basement, family room etc.

• Type: wood, gas etc.

• Firebox: type (metal, brick etc.), cracks/damage, pilot light on/off, moisture stains/efflorescence

• Damper: non-operative/warped, missing handle nail, soot buildup, rusting

• Hearth: cracked/chipped, settling, missing pieces, poor clearance

• Facing: settling, cracks, heavy charring, incomplete, no make-up air 

GENERAL: Any obvious immediate condition that may appear to impede efficiency,  cause premature failure, or pose a health or safety risk.

NOTE: If any point of a regular inspection is concealed, or not accessible to the inspector it will not be included in the inspection.