NFPA 211 Standards for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances 2003 Edition

Level II

Level III

Scope

Readily accessible areas of chimney, structure and flue. Lack of obstruction or combustible deposits in flue. Basic appliance installation and connection.

All subjects of a Level I 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.

Degree Of Access Required

Shall include readily accessible portions of chimney exterior and interior; accessible portions of appliance and chimney connection.

Shall include all accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior, including areas within accessible attics, crawl spaces and basements and accessible portions of the appliance and chimney connection. Shall include inspection by video scanning or other means of inspection.

Shall include external and internal portions of the chimney structure, including concealed areas of the building or chimney. Shall include removal of components of the building or chimney where necessary. Removal of such components shall be required only as necessary to gain access to areas that are the subject of the inspection.

Circumstances

Annual inspection as required by Section 13.2. During routine cleaning of chimney flue. Upon direct replacement of a connected appliance with one of similar type, input rating and efficiency.

Upon addition or removal of one or more connected appliances, or replacement of an appliance with one of dissimilar rating or efficiency. Prior to relining or replacement of flue lining. Upon sale or transfer of the property. After an operating malfunction or external event likely to have caused damage to the chimney.

Where necessary for the investigation of an incident that has caused damage to the chimney or building. Where the hazard detected or suspected as the result of a Level I or Level II inspection cannot be fully evaluated without access to the concealed areas.

 

Indications

A Level I inspection is indicated when verification of the suitability of the chimney, under the same conditions and with the same appliance or appliances, is needed.

A Level II inspection is indicated when verification of the suitability of the chimney for new or changed conditions of service is needed, or when a Level I inspection is not sufficient to determine the serviceability of the chimney.

A Level III inspection is indicated when the construction of all or part of the chimney is deemed critical to the renewed or continued use of the chimney. A Level III inspection shall be required only for those areas that cannot be properly evaluated by a Level I or Level II inspection.