NFPA Standard 211 suggests that chimneys, fireplaces and vents should be inspected at least once per year for soundness, freedom from deposits and correct clearances. Using this standard as a point of departure and on the advice of our insurer, the trust establishes the following policy:
- 1. Wood-burning fire places: a. With the view of preventing fires and for the safety of all residents and guests, a qualified chimney service technician shall inspect, as required, on installation or on modification, and annually, fireplaces and vents whether or not the fireplace is used within the year. The fireplace, vents and flue shall be cleaned and repaired as needed based on the technician’s report.
- b. Proof of initial inspection, inspection on modification and annual inspection and repair if needed shall to be submitted to Lesley Management by October 30 annually.
- c. The cost of the annual inspection of wood burning fireplaces will be borne by the owner.
- 2. All fireplaces except woodburning fireplaces (see above): a. All fireplaces, including gas log fireplaces shall be inspected, as required, on installation or on modification and once every three years by a qualified chimney service technician whether or not the fireplace is used within the three years. The fireplace vents and flue shall be cleaned and repaired as needed based on the technician’s report.
- b. Proof of a once-in-three-year inspection and repair if needed shall be submitted to Lesley Management by October 30 within the year marking three years from the previous inspection.
- c. The cost of the once-in-three-year inspection will be borne by the owner.
3. Failure to comply by the deadlines mentioned in items 1 and 2 above will result in the trust commissioning the inspection and necessary repairs, the cost of which will be billed to the owner with an additional $100 convenience fee.
A list of qualified chimney services is available from Lesley Management.