3.8. Fireplace

I. The inspector shall inspect:

• readily accessible and visible portions of the fireplace and chimneys;

  
  

• lintels above the fireplace openings;

  
  

• damper doors by opening and closing them, if readily accessible and manually operable; and

  
  

• clean-out doors and frames.
  
  

II. The inspector shall describe: 

A. 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
  
  

• clean-outs 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 draft 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.