Fireplace
3.8. Fireplace
I. The inspector shall inspect:
- readily accessible and visible portions of the fireplaces and chimneys;
- lintels above the fireplace openings;
- damper doors by opening and closing them, if readily accessible and manually operable; and
- cleanout doors and frames.
II. The inspector shall describe:
- the type of fireplace.
III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
- evidence of joint separation, damage or deterioration of the hearth, hearth extension or chambers;
- manually operated dampers that did not open and close;
- the lack of a smoke detector in the same room as the fireplace;
- the lack of a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as the fireplace; and
- cleanouts not made of metal, pre-cast cement, or other non-combustible material.
IV. The inspector is not required to:
- inspect the flue or vent system.
- inspect the interior of chimneys or flues, fire doors or screens, seals or gaskets, or mantels.
- determine the need for a chimney sweep.
- operate gas fireplace inserts.
- light pilot flames.
- determine the appropriateness of any installation.
- inspect automatic fuel-fed devices.
- inspect combustion and/or make-up air devices.
- inspect heat-distribution assists, whether gravity-controlled or fan-assisted.
- ignite or extinguish fires.
- determine the adequacy of drafts or draft characteristics.
- move fireplace inserts, stoves or firebox contents.
- perform a smoke test.
- dismantle or remove any component.
- perform a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)-style inspection.
- perform a Phase I fireplace and chimney inspection.