eBook - Real Estate Home Inspection Checklist from A to Z

Fireplaces

• There is (#)__________ fireplace(s) in the house.
• The fireplace(s) has (y/n)__________ signs of structural problems. The mortar joints and/or firebox area are in (G/A/F/P)_______________ condition.
• The fireplace(s) has (y/n)__________ signs of back-smoking problems. Back-smoking is caused by downdrafts in the chimney flue which cause the smoke to come back into the house. Signs of back-smoking are black deposits, called "creosote," on the front of the fireplace and mantel.
• The fireplace(s) does (y/n)__________ have a properly operating sliding screen cover and glass doors for safe and energy efficient operation of the fireplace(s).
• The fireplace damper(s) is in (G/A/F/P)_______________ condition and is (y/n)__________ operating properly. The "damper" is the metal door inside the top of the firebox area which is opened while a fire is burning and closed when the fireplace is not in use. If the damper does not open and close properly or is very rusty it must be replaced.
• The inspector was (y/n)__________ able to view inside the chimney flue(s). The flue lining(s) is made of (brick/tile/cement/etc.)____________________________________________________. The visible areas of the flue lining(s) are in (G/A/F/P)_______________ condition. There are (y/n)__________ signs of an excessive buildup of creosote inside the flue lining(s). All chimney flues need to be swept and repointed by a reputable chimney sweep periodically to help prevent chimney fires from thick creosote deposits.

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