When it comes to selling or buying a home, there is no doubt that fireplaces add appeal. Statistics show that most home buyers want a fireplace in their future home. In addition, would be willing pay more for a house with one in it. It’s a simple fact. Fireplaces increase the value of a property and play a role in making them easier to sell.
That being said, no one wants to buy a home with a damaged, dirty, or potentially dangerous fireplace or chimney. Chimney Inspections are an important part of owning a home. All homeowners should be scheduling them at least once per year for all combustion appliances in the home such as furnaces and wood stoves.
Yet, no matter when the date of your last service was, scheduling an inspection before buying or selling a home is an important and necessary step to take.
If You’re Selling…
If you are selling your home and already have a home inspection checked off your to-do list, you may think your chimney is good to go. This is not the case! It is important to hire a professional chimney technician to thoroughly examine the ins and outs of your chimney and fireplace. Home inspectors are only required to look at what is “readily accessible.” This means a full and proper evaluation of your appliance was not performed. This should be for all flues in the home.
It’s important to get this assessment done. By doing so, you can make an honest and open disclosure on the current condition of your home. Having issues come up last minute is never ideal when trying to get your house on the market. So schedule your inspection early, and no surprises pop up later.
If You’re Buying…
If you are buying a home, it is always wise to have an inspection done on the chimney before anything is made official. A new home is one of the most expensive investments you will ever make. As we said before, home inspectors do not inspect the chimney. Oftentimes, home buyers will skip scheduling an inspection relying on the general inspection. A chimney inspection by a CSIA Certified Chimney Technician will evaluate creosote build up, exterior deterioration from water penetration or age, performance, and safety issues. Make sure to have all chimney flues inspected for all appliances. These include fireplaces, wood stoves and furnaces.
Stay on the safe side. Make sure you get exactly what the current owners are marketing! When hiring a chimney professional, you should schedule a chimney inspection only with a CSIA Certified Technician. They are trained specialists who go through extensive training in all aspects of chimney inspections.
What To Expect
Whether you are buying or selling, you’ll want your chimney technician to do a Level 2 inspection. This is the minimal standard of care and best inspection when it comes to transferring property. It’s a more in-depth and intricate overview than a level 1. Also, it will provide you with all of the information you need to make an educated decision about the next steps you wish to take.
Call Clean Sweep of Anne Arundel County today at 410-590-4800 to schedule your inspection with us!