When buying a new home, who should inspect the chimney?

Chimney and fireplace inspections are NOT covered by most regular home inspections. When buying a new home with any wood-burning device, we would advise that the home-buyer hire their own independent, specialized chimney inspector to inspect those devices. Why? Only certified chimney inspectors can correctly identify problems with a masonry chimney. The last thing you want is to move into your dream home only to find out that the fireplace and chimney are unsafe for use. We are still consistently finding major damage to masonry chimneys caused by the August 2011 earthquake, and some inspectors (hired by the realtor) seem to be overlooking major problems to help move properties.

Sadly, we’ve heard of sellers who have sold homes with chimneys that required major repairs. The new owners discovered the problems, sued, and the seller wound up having to have the entire chimney demolished and rebuilt. Don’t get burned… hire Fire-Safe to inspect the fireplace, chimney, and flue of any prospective properties you are considering purchasing.