The chimney industry must adhere to national guidelines such as NFPA 211 and NFPA 54, alongside local building codes usually based on the International Residential Code. These standards dictate different levels of chimney inspections and specify when each level is necessary.
The most fundamental inspection, level 1, is mandatory with every service. Level 2 inspections are required in specific circumstances such as suspected damage or during real estate transactions. Notably, when a chimney inspection coincides with a home sale, a detailed and comprehensive inspection is mandated.