Jax Vents Chimney Sweep Cleaning & Repair
Jax Vents philosophy is to provide quality service at affordable rates. In years past it was only recommended in the National Fire Code to have a chimney inspected once a year. It was up to the local sweep to inspect a fireplace to his discretion.

In 2003 the National Fire Protection Association revised the fire code and for the first time defined inspection. The NFPA 211 has created a national industry standard by developing three levels of inspection. Each level explains when a chimney should be inspected and how it should be inspected.

Level 1
A level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney under continued service under the same conditions and with the continued use of the same appliance, (If the chimney has not changed and you plan to use the fireplace as you always have and for annual inspections, routine cleaning of the flue and with the same fuel).

A Level 1 inspection verifies the chimney is free of obstructions and substantially free of combustible deposits (soot) . It also includes inspections of the readily accessible portions** of the chimney exterior, interior and accessible portions* of the appliance and chimney connections. It covers basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installations and connections. This is a visual inspection only.

Level 2
A level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system. Changes can include a change in fuel type ( i.e. changing from wood to gas logs or gas logs back to wood ), changes to the shape of or material in the flue (relining) or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type or input rating or efficiency. In addition a Level 2 inspection should be done on all sale and transfered property. Also, after an operating malfunction or external event that may have caused damage to the chimney. Building fires, chimney fires, seismic events as well as weather events are all indicators that this level of inspection is warranted.

A Level 2 Inspection includes everything in a level 1 inspection plus the accessible portions* of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces, and basements. It shall include the use of a video scanning or other means in order to visually examine the internal surfaces and joints of all flue liners incorporated within the chimney. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible* locations.

There are no special tools (i.e. demolitions equipment) required to open doors, panels, or coverings in performing a level 2. No removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure or finish shall be required in a Level 2. (A Level two inspection is a more in-depth inspection than a level one mainly due to the areas inspected and the digital camera equipment.)

Level 3
A level 3 inspection is required when a serious hazard is suspected a Level 3 will be required. When a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection suggests a hidden hazard and the evaluation cannot be performed without special tools to access concealed areas of the chimney or flue, a Level 3 is recommended.