It is a job to buy a home. It takes a lot of time, energy, money, and imagination. Oftentimes a prospective buyer knows exactly what they want in a new home before they begin looking. If your dream home includes a fireplace, there are a few extra steps you should consider before signing on the dotted line.
Real Estate Disclosure
If you’re serious about a home, your Realtor or seller should present you with a disclosure statement before you make an offer. It should include things like: cracks in the ceiling or foundation–things that are fundamental to the house but aren’t in perfect condition. The disclosure statement is where you should find information about your chimney. If you don’t have this information up front, it’s likely that there hasn’t been a chimney inspection.
Level Two Inspection
Because the chimney system is one of the largest systems in the home, and the majority of it is hidden, a level two inspection is required when the property is sold or transferred. A level two inspection means that the chimney is inspected by a professional. He will inspect everything that is readily accessible, as well as hidden components with the help of video scanning systems and tools. The level two inspection can identify problems that might go unnoticed by a realtor, homeowner, even a home inspector. Only a trained chimney professional will be able to recognize a chimney problem–minor or major.
Why Hire a Professional
If you’ve fallen in love with a home that hasn’t had a chimney inspection yet, it’s not all a loss. The cost of the inspection can be taken from the cost of the house during negotiation. The seller can also schedule the inspection as a way to get the sale going. Whatever option you choose, it’s worth discussing with the realtor or seller. The last thing you need is a new home with a major problem. Hiring a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (CCS) is the best way to protect your investment when buying a home, whether you’ve just found your dream home, or you recently bought a home. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible because early detection and prevention is the best way to maintain your chimney for the life of your home.
Buying a Neglected Chimney
Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with a prospective home, but the real estate disclosures are discouraging. The chimney has been neglected and will be costly to fix. By calling a chimney sweep, you give yourself options. Chesapeake Chimney & Co. installs pre-fabricated (factory-made) chimneys. These chimneys are lightweight, easy to install, and affordable. They also go great with a new fireplace insert, that can be installed directly into an existing firebox. Even if your firebox is damaged, an insert can bring your fireplace back to life so that you can enjoy your new home, fireplace and all!
When you are house hunting, the last thing you want or need is extra problems or cost. Make yourself aware of what you’re getting when you sign on the dotted line. Call a chimney sweep who can assess the chimney system before you make your purchase, and can walk you through your options. Call Chesapeake Chimney & Co. today at 410-535-0052.
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